Abduction stories: Conspiracy to create fear psychosis says Govt. Muslim leaders

Whilst Muslim leaders in the Government charged that reports of abductions of businessmen for extortion of money was a conspiracy to "create a fear psychosis" the Goverment's major investigation arm, the Criminal Investigation Department has still not been able to throw any light on how it is taking place.

Western Provine Governor Alavi Mowlana told The Sunday Times it was a "conspiracy" to instil a "fear psychosis" in the minds of the business community. It was also intended to tarnish the good image of the Government for certain parties to capture power.

He charged that that the opposition United National Party (UNP) was trying to fish in troubled waters. "There are a few abductions but the whole thing has been blown out of proportion. The story had begun with an e-mail that contained false information," he claimed.
However, DIG in charge of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), D.W. Prathapasinghe told The Sunday Times they were still carrying out investigations but have not managed to make a breakthrough.

The remarks came against the backdrop of a string of abductions and extortions of Muslim businessmen. The latest victim, said to be the owner of a well known clothier chain, had been abducted and had reportedly parted with Rs 25 million to secure his release.