The United People’s Freedom Alliance (UFPA) today expressed shock and disbelief over the tragic shooting incident at Bloemendhal Road in Colombo, which claimed the life of a UNP supporter and wounded at least another dozen. 

The UPFA government which prepared the environment for the conducting of a peaceful election expresses its deep regret, as the opposition, regarding this situation which is arising, UPFA Spokesman Dilan Perera said.

Issuing a statement, he urged the President, Elections Commissioner and Inspector General of Police (IGP) to conduct an immediate investigation into the Bloemendhal incident and apprehend every individual responsible.

The UPFA further requested that the true information regarding the incident be presented to the people. 

One person was killed and 13 wounded in the shooting, which is the first major incident of pre-election violence ahead of the parliamentary polls on August 17. 

The body of a woman was brought to Colombo National Hospital and others were admitted with gunshot wounds. Four underwent surgery for serious injuries.

UNP supporters campaigning for Finance Minsiter Ravi Karunanayake were targeted by the armed men, who had reportedly used a t-56 rifle and two vehicles for the drive-by shooting. 

Karunanayake called the attack an “act of political terrorism” and blamed forces loyal to former president Mahinda Rajapaksa.

He called it a “complete breach of democracy sponsored by a bankrupt opposition”.

Mr Rajapaksa’s spokesman condemned the attack. “It’s a joke to accuse the leader who liberated the country and it’s a shame that a responsible minister is blaming president Mr Rajapaksa even without proper police investigations,” Rohan Welivita said.