16 major racial incidents in two months, four arrested

At least sixteen major incidents based on racism had been reported across the country since April, Police Spokesman DIG Priyantha Jayakody said today.

He said four suspects had been arrested in connection with the incidents.

A 32-year-old man, a resident of Maharagama was arrested by the Police officers attached to the Nugegoda Division in connection with four incidents in Nugegoda and Wijerama, DIG Jayakody said.

“The suspect was a member of the Bodu Bala Sena organisation and is being questioned under detention,” he said.

Meanwhile, three suspects were arrested in connection with the three separate incidents in Danthure. One of them charged for insulting Buddha in social media, while other two were arrested on charges of damaging properties.

DIG Jayakody said strict actions would be taken against any individual or group, who were involved in stirring racial tensions and incidents of insulting religions.

“There were several incidents also reported in Trincomalee, Embilipitiya and Wennappuwa. The Police are investigating the incidents. The individuals responsible for those crimes will be brought to justice,” he said.(Darshana Sanjeewa)