Don’t fall prey to provocations: Religious leaders

● Decision to issue orders to shoot on sight is a dangerous move

Two prominent religious leaders yesterday urged people not to fall into the trap of those who want to provoke them.

The plea was made by Archbishop of Colombo Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith and Ven. Omalpe Sobitha Thera at a media conference.

“Violence has to be answered with love and not with violence,”

It is clear that the attackers were sent from Temple trees after giving them alcohol

the Cardinal said.

“It is clear that the attackers were sent from Temple trees after giving them alcohol. Their objective is to provoke the people just to fulfil their vested interests,” he alleged.

Ven. Sobitha Thera said the decision by the authorities to issue orders to shoot on sight those who rob public property and harm others is a dangerous move.“we appeal to the security forces to think several times before pointing the gun at anyone,” Ven. Thera said.