Justice Minister accuses police of false arrests

• Says substances recovered have not been narcotic drugs
• There are also instances where  wrong tips have been given to police as acts of revenge

Minister of Justice Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe yesterday alleged  that some police officers have falsely arrested persons on drug-related  offences.   

“Police lately have arrested a large number of persons for  keeping drugs in their possession, but the substances they have  recovered from the suspects have not been narcotic drugs, the Minister  said.    

 “Genuine arrests have been less than one per cent,” he added.   

“There are instances where it has been found “Panadol”  powder from the possession of suspects. There are also instances where  wrong tips have been given to police as acts of revenge,” he also said.    

“We will launch a special programme to monitor the situation and to take preventive measures,” the Minister assured.