21 January 2010 12:16 pm
The government has blamed army deserters for the recent pre-election violence in Sri Lanka. The Foreign Ministry, in a statement, said that these deserters are not only trained in handling weapons and small arms but some even posses them. The Ministry also said that there are also former insurgents who are part of the opposition who are also familiar with the use of weapons.
“The Government is concerned over some unfortunate incidents of violence. It should be noted that this is perhaps the first time in our post independence history that a former military officer is contesting an election. According to many credible sources, some of the violent incidents were believed to have resulted due to instigation by groups mainly consisting of army deserters. These deserters are not only trained in handling weapons and small arms but some even posses them. There are also former insurgents who are part of the Opposition who are also familiar with the use of weapons,” he said in a statement to journalists from the foreign media.
The Minister also mentioned the government’s proactive role in combating war crimes propaganda. “On the issue of alleged war crimes, the Government has appointed a panel of experts to look into these allegations. If there are strong evidences and indications, this Commission will investigate anyone and examine all material presented to them” he said. (DS)