Three men arrested for abducting Brazilian visitor, demanding Rs. 3 mn bribe

Colombo, July 11 (Daily Mirror) - Three men have been arrested by the Unawatuna Tourist Police for allegedly impersonating Tourist Police officers, unlawfully detaining a Brazilian national and demanding a Rs. 3 million bribe to prevent his arrest.

Police said the Brazilian tourist was staying at a guesthouse in Thalpe, Galle, when two suspects arrived claiming to be Tourist Police officers. The pair allegedly searched the victim's room and seized his Brazilian passport, United States documents, mobile phones and several other personal belongings.

Police said a third suspect later joined the two men, after which the group allegedly handcuffed and threatened the tourist. The suspects reportedly claimed that a Rs. 3 million bribe had to be paid to a senior police officer in Colombo to prevent the Brazilian national from being arrested.

Following a complaint, officers attached to the Unawatuna Tourist Police launched an investigation and arrested the three suspects, aged 25 and 26.

Police also seized an Alto car believed to have been used in the commission of the crime.

The suspects to be produced before the Galle Magistrate's Court.