Sri Lanka Police said the Criminal Investigation Department has identified 57 social media posts containing fake news, disinformation, rumors and unverified updates circulating in recent days, prompting investigations under emergency regulations.
Police Media Division said a special CID unit is reviewing the posts, which officials claim could create fear, disrupt public order or incite tensions if widely shared. Under the Public Security Ordinance and emergency regulations, circulating false information that may lead to public unrest is a punishable offense.
Assistant Superintendent of Police F. U. Wootler urged the public to avoid sharing unverified content during the ongoing disaster response efforts. He said police units are monitoring platforms closely to curb misinformation and maintain public safety.
Authorities have repeatedly warned that misleading posts can hinder rescue and relief operations as the country continues to deal with severe flooding and landslides. (Newswire)