Two safari drivers arrested over clash at Ridiyagama Safari Park

Police say both sides involved in the alleged altercation that occurred inside the Ridiyagama Safari Park on the evening of March 23 have lodged complaints that the other party assaulted them. 

The incident had occurred after the Director of the National Zoological Gardens had visited the park. She had become involved in an argument with some staff members at the park. The park's veterinary surgeon was also at the location when the incident occurred. 

The veterinary surgeon has lodged a complaint with the Ambalantota police claiming that he was assaulted during the incident by two drivers employed at the park while the drivers have lodged a complaint with the same police station claiming they were assaulted by the veterinary surgeon. 

The veterinary surgeon has admitted himself to the Hambantota Hospital while one of the drivers is warded at the Suriyawewa Hospital. 

One of the safari drivers who allegedly assaulted the veterinary surgeon was arrested on March 25 and produced before the Hambantota Magistrate's Court while the other drivers was arrested on March 26 and produced before the same magistrate's court. Both men were released on personal bails of Rs 300, 000 each. The case will be taken up again on October 20, 2022. 

As both parties have lodged complaints against each other, the Ambalantota police are conducting investigations into the incident and police said legal action will be taken against all those found to be guilty.