No Muslim leader informed on extremist groups in writing: Gevindu

By Sheain Fernandopulle  

None of the Muslim political leaders had informed about the Muslim extremist groups in black and white to the relevant authorities, ‘Yuthukama Sanwada Kawaya’ President Gevindu Kumaratunga said yesterday.  

Addressing a news briefing, Mr. Kumaratunga said although Muslim leaders had expressed that they had informed about the extremist groups including National Thowheed Jama’ath (NTJ) on numerous occasions, they had not informed in a responsible manner.  “Even at this stage, the Muslim leaders should not be hesitant to reveal such emerging extremist organisations along with the individuals who are involved in,” he said.  

“If these organisations were revealed, they could be banned,” he added.  

He proceeded to say that the Muslim leaders seemed to be reluctant to express their views on swords and sharp weapons being found in Muslims mosques.   

Meanwhile, he proposed that Rs.140 million in cash and other assets worth over Rs.7 billion which were identified by the CID as the assets belonging to the terrorists involved in the Easter Sunday attacks, should be distributed among the victims of bomb attacks and used for renovating of buildings which were damaged.   

Nevertheless, he expressed his displeasure over schools being reopened on separate dates and added all the schools should be re-commenced on a single day not only considering security but also brotherhood and togetherness.