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Security stepped up for UNP candidates
View(s):Police probing the attack on supporters of Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayaka at Kotahena on Friday are looking into two possible motives — a political attack or rivalry among underworld gangs, a senior police officer said. Twenty suspects were taken in for questioning soon after the attack, which was the worst act of violence in the current election campaign. The suspects were released after statements were recorded from them.
Where the peaceful polls campaign died: In the aftermath of the first major act of violence in the current election campaign, police are seen taking some suspects for questioning yesterday from an apartment complex not far from the scene of the crime. Gunmen on Friday came in a car and opened fire at supporters of Minister Ravi Karunanayake. Pic by Nilan Maligaspe
Modara resident Siththi Nazima (42) was killed and 13 others were injured in the attack when gunmen who came in black hybrid Toyota Aqua vehicle opened fire at the UNP supporters. The vehicle believed to have been used by the gunmen was found and is now in police custody.
Meanwhile, Police Chief N.K. Illangakoon yesterday ordered that security be intensified for political meetings in the Colombo region. This came when he held a meeting with senior officers in the aftermath of the attack on Mr. Karunanayake’s supporters.
The United National Party (UNP) also yesterday told its candidates to step-up security and increase vigilance during the campaign, a cabinet minister said.
Public Order Minister John Amaratunga said candidates were told to ensure additional security for their meeting.“Friday’s attack shows that the lives of the candidates and supporters are under threat. We do not want to take chances,” he said.
