Sri Lanka Police have launched investigations into incidents involving ride-hailing taxi drivers operating in the Ella tourist area following complaints of threats and assaults, police said.
According to the Police Media Division, complaints were received that drivers operating services such as PickMe and Uber were threatened and assaulted by local taxi drivers when entering the Ella tourism zone. The incidents were reported to the Ella Police Station, prompting an investigation.
Police said a video circulating on social media claimed that officers had instructed ride-hailing drivers not to operate in the area. Authorities clarified that a complaint regarding police conduct was received on December 19, and an inquiry was conducted under instructions from senior police officials. As a result, two police officers linked to the complaint were transferred with immediate effect pending further inquiries.
Separately, police said investigations were initiated on December 21 following reports that a group attempted to assault a ride-hailing driver and damaged a vehicle in the Ella police division before fleeing the area.
Based on information uncovered during investigations, police have launched a special operation to arrest two suspects connected to the attempted assault and property damage.
The suspects are due to be produced before the Badulla Magistrate’s Court on December 22, police said, adding that further investigations are continuing.
Police reiterated that legal action will be taken against anyone obstructing lawful transport services or engaging in acts of violence within tourist areas. (Newswire)
