Five protesters arrested at Galle Face Green granted bail

Five persons who were arrested while engage in a protest on Sunday evening (9) to commemorate the people who died and injured while being involved in the Aragalaya protests were today ordered to be released on bail by Colombo Fort Magistrate Thilina Gamage. 

While rejecting police request to remand the suspects, the Magistrate ordered to release each suspect on a surety bail of Rs.500,000. 

Producing the suspects before Magistrate, Police alleged that the suspects had engaged in a protest that was organised in an illegal manner. Police said they have organized the protest without prior permission, causing damages to the property maintained by Urban Development Authority and Port Authority. Police further alleged that the protesters obstructed police officers from carrying their duty after being members of unlawful assembly. 
A group of lawyers appearing on behalf of the suspects argued that the protesters had been arrested while they were engaging in a peaceful protest to commemorate those who sacrificed their lives during the Aragalaya.

Drawing Court’s attention after displaying several video footage, defence counsel alleged that behavior of police officers were aggressive and violent and acted in violation of people’s fundamental rights.

They argued that police are responsible for violating people’s constitutional rights to engage in a peaceful protest and freedom of expression. 

Taking into consideration the facts, the Magistrate decided to release the suspects on bail and further magisterial inquiry fixed for November 18. 

President's Counsel Rienzie Arsekularatne, Saliya Pieris PC, Sarath Jayamanne and Counsel Udara Muhandiramge appeared for the protesters. (Lakmal Sooriyagoda)