Cop dies while attempting to disperse protesters in Kebithigollewa

The policeman who came under physical assault yesterday by a group of residents in Kebithigollewa in Anuradhapura, died at the hospital this morning, the police said.

They said the 54-year-old policeman was fatally injured after being attacked by the villagers who were protesting over a wild elephant attack in the village.

The deceased policeman was serving in the Kebithigollewa Police Station.

It was reported that the police had fired several gunshots into the air in an attempt to disperse the crowd.

Later, the villagers attacked the policemem following a heated argument during the protest. 

The policemen who had lost his life, attempted to control the situation. However, protesters overcame and attacked him following the argument, the police said.

The injured policemen was initially admitted to the Anuradhapura hospital where he breathed last.

Four culprits, including a Buddhist monk, were arrested over the incident. (Chaturanga Samarawickrama)