POLICE PROBING POLITICO’S SPEECH

HATE CRIME

The Police were investigating into a politician’s statement, which was seen as inciting racism and create communal disharmony, Police Spokesman DIG Priyantha Jayakody said yesterday.

He said that legal action would be taken against such politicians under the instruction of the Attorney-general.

Speaking at a press briefing DIG Jayakody said total of 14 individual had been arrested in connection with the incidents based on racism.

“The suspects were arrested in connection with several incidents that had taken place in Panadura, Kurunegala, Eluvila and Weeraketiya. “A monk and a police constable were also among those who were arrested,” he said.

The Spokesman said the Police were also investigating several complaints received relating to the social media.

He said a special Police unit was investigating such incidents.

“We would obtain Attorney General’s instruction in connection against individuals who incite racism and violence trough social media,” he said.

DIG Jayakody also said that strict action would be taken against any individual or group, who were involved in stirring racial tensions and incidents of insulting religions.

Commenting on Bodu Bala Sena General Secretary Galagodaaththe Gnanasara Thera, DIG Jayakody said that investigations were underway to arrest the Thera.

He said that legal action would be instituted against any individual found to be hiding Gnanasara Thera, for “aiding and abetting” in inciting racial violence.

A monk and a police constable were also among the arrested... We would obtain Attorney General’s instruction in connection against individuals who incite racism and violence through social media