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Camelia Nathaniel
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Public Security Minister Sarath Weerasekara said Police will pursue stern legal action against anyone who causes damage to public property under the guise of engaging in protests.
Minister Weerasekara in a special statement acknowledged that engaging in protests is a democratic and constitutional right of the people, adding that the government has no intention of obstructing this right.
“My responsibility as the Public Security Minister is to maintain law and order and provide security to the people.We know that people are facing many problems without gas, electricity and fuel.
“As a government we cannot escape responsibility for this situation. People are agitating and holding rallies in this regard. It is a democratic right of the people. It will not be taken away by the government at all.”
However, he warned that the police will take strict legal action against those who cause damage to public property, break into shops or cause damage to houses under the guise of protests.
“Police have been instructed to identify those who are peaceful among these protestors, especially journalists who are doing their duty. I have instructed the police not to harass them.”
The minister noted that property damage in the Mirihana incident is Rs.39 million. In addition, 17 police officers were seriously injured while on duty. Some who were injured are still in hospital, he said.
“They are only doing their duty and have to suffer injuries and insults from people. I appeal to the public to understand that the police are doing their duty. Finally, the government is well aware of the problems the people are facing. Many countries in the world face similar problems. The government has already made short-term and long-term plans to address these issues.”
He added that the government hopes to make the public aware of these plans in the future. “So be patient. Do not be deceived by the provocations of saboteurs. At this juncture I make it very clear to the people that the government is committed to resolving the issues of the people while maintaining law and order.”
Monday, April 4, 2022 – 01:06
