A comprehensive investigation will be conducted into the recent incident involving the Deraniyagala Police and a group of local residents, with strict legal action to be taken against all parties found responsible, the Minister of Public Security, Ananda Wijepala informed Parliament today (24).
Responding to a question raised by Parliamentarian Ravi Karunanayake, the Public Security Minister stated that if any wrongdoing by police officers is established during the inquiry, legal action will also be taken against them without hesitation. He further noted that measures will be implemented to prevent similar incidents in the future.
According to reports, officers from the Avissawella Divisional Crime Investigation Bureau carried out a raid on a residence on Noori Road, Deraniyagala on June 19, following an anonymous complaint alleging the presence of drug traffickers.
During the operation, four males were arrested along with suspected narcotics found at the location.
However, the suspects reportedly denied possession of drugs and accused police of misconduct.
Tensions escalated when a group of residents at the scene allegedly threatened an officer and demanded the release of two detainees.
Amid the unrest, a police officer reportedly removed the handcuffs of one suspect in an attempt to control the situation. Following this, the crowd allegedly attacked police officers, chasing and assaulting them.
Reports further state that a youth acted aggressively, claiming that a police officer’s wallet contained a packet of crystal methamphetamine (‘Ice’). The wallet was later handed over to the Deraniyagala Police.
The confrontation resulted in the escape of suspects who had been in police custody, allegedly facilitated by the attackers.
Four police officers sustained injuries and were admitted to the Avissawella Hospital for treatment.
Police have since arrested four individuals on charges of obstructing law enforcement duties and they have been remanded in custody.
Deraniyagala Police continue investigations into the incident.
