H'tota assault; Journo violates basic media ethics-Govt

11 December 2016 09:25 pm

Government Information Department Director General Ranga Kalansooriya said that the journalist, who was allegedly assaulted during an incident in Hambantota, had violated basic ethical practices when covering sensitive conflict situations.

Issuing a statement said, he said that the government has initiated an inquiry into the alleged assault on a journalist during the protest at Hambantota Port on Saturday.

"It is expected that the journalists adhere to the highest standards of ethical practices when covering these types of conflict situations," Mr Kalansooriya said.

The statement also said the navy had pointed out that the physical presence of its commander at the scene was mandatory requirement of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.