Two arrested after protest outside Southern Province Governor’s office turns ugly

Two suspects have been arrested for allegedly assaulting a police officer during a protest at the Southern Province Governor's office yesterday (23).

Police Media Unit said the assault occurred when a group of protesters attempted to forcibly enter the Governor's office. A group of casual labourers attached to the District Secretariat had held a protest opposite the secretariat yesterday demanding that they be made permanent employes. 

The group had then made their way on foot to the Governor's office and held a protest there. Five of the protesters were allowed to meet with the Governor's Secretary. However, even after the discussion, the protest continued outside the office with protesters blocking the office's main gate. The group had then attempted to force their way inside by pushing open the gate. One of the police officers who had been on duty and was trying to keep the protesters back was then allegedly assaulted, resulting in him sustaining injuries. The officer was admitted to the Karapitiya Teaching Hospital. 

Police have arrested a 39-year-old resident of Thalpe and a 42-year-old resident of Galle in connection with the incident. Galle Police are investigating.