Police fired tear gas on a group of people who were protesting over an alleged assault in Aluthgama on the Galle--Colombo Road this evening, police said.

Traffic jams were also reported in the area after the protesters blocked the road to protest an alleged assault on a Buddhist monk and his driver which had taken place yesterday near the Kurunduwatta Vivekaramaya in Pathirajaewela, Dharga Town.

Protesters said no one had been arrested in connection with the assault. However three people were arrested in connection with the tense situation that prevailed on the road.  

Ministers Kumara Welgama and Rohitha Abeyagunawardene visited the scene in an attempt to sort out matters. Mr. Welagama’s vehicle was reportedly stoned by the angry crowd and damaged.(Sarath Siriwardana)