Police have arrested 15 persons including the Samagi Jana Balavegaya (SJB) organizer for Nawalapitiya electorate, Sasanka Sampath, during a protest today (16). 

The relevant arrests were made while they were protesting against a Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) rally which is being held at Nawalapitiya by blocking the Nawalapitiya-Kotmale road, according to police.

A group of individuals including Sasanka Sampath Sanjeewa, the Samagi Jana Balavegaya (SJB) organizer for Nawalapitiya, had commenced the protest this afternoon (Oct 16) at Nawalapitiya City, based on several issues including the rising cost of living.

Later, when the group marched towards Nawalapitiya town from near the Nawalapitiya District Hospital to conduct the demonstration, police officers had announced through loudspeakers that they had not obtained permission to conduct a demonstration in Nawalapitiya city.

At least 15 of them including Sasanka Sampath Sanjeewa were arrested there by police due to the agitators disobeying the police order.

The arrested individuals are scheduled to be produced before Nawalapitiya Magistrate’s Court, according to Nawalapitiya Police.

Meanwhile, the second phase of the series of public rallies organized by Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) under the theme of “Let’s Rise Together” was held this morning, in Nawalapitiya.

The meeting was held under the patronage of former prime minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and was attended by several MPs of the party.