Unprovoked attacks: CID questions six SLPP MPs

The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has questioned six SLPP MPs on their alleged involvement iunprovoked attacks on protestors outside Temple Trees and Galle Face on 09 May.

The CID informed Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena of the need to question them.

The police moved in the wake of Attorney General Sanjay Rajaratnam issuing instructions to the CID regarding the need to investigate further whether 22 persons were involved in the incidents.

The AG has named 22 persons. The Police headquarters declined to confirm whether former Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa was among the lawmakers whose statements were sought by the CID.

The Fort Magistrate’s Court has issued a travel ban on ex-Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, MP Namal Rajapaksa, MP Pavithra Wanniarachchi, MP Johnston Fernando, MP Sanjeewa Edirimanna, MP Rohitha Abeygunawardena, MP C.B. Ratnayake, MP Sanath Nishantha, Kanchana Jayaratne (Pavitra Wanniarachchi’s husband), Sampath Athukorala, Mahinda Kahandagama, Renuka Perera, Nishantha Abeysinghe, Amitha Abeywickrama, Pushpalal Kumarasinghe, Dilip Fernando and Senior DIG Deshabandu Thennakoon.

Police have recorded statements from all MPs except Namal Rajapaksa.

Police said that investigations were continuing into the March 31 incidents at Pangiriwatte, Mirihana, unprovoked attacks on protesters and countrywide retaliatory attacks. Nearly 400 persons had been arrested in connection with the retaliatory attacks so far. (SF)