A mechanical defect in the vehicle driven by National People’s Power (NPP) MP Ashoka Ranwala, including a brake malfunction, has been identified following investigations into the Sapugaskanda road accident, Sri Lanka Police said.
Police Media Spokesman ASP F. U. Wootler told BBC Sinhala that a report submitted by the Department of Motor Traffic confirmed a mechanical fault, which had not been properly managed. Police said legal action will be taken in relation to this finding as well.
He added that blood samples taken from the MP at the National Hospital in Colombo have been forwarded to the Government Analyst, and further legal steps will be determined once the report is received. Authorities said the results to determine whether the MP was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident are still pending.
The accident occurred on December 11 at the Denimulla junction in Sapugaskanda when the MP’s jeep collided with a car. Three people, including a child, were injured. The child was admitted to the Lady Ridgeway Hospital, while the others, including the MP, were treated at the National Hospital.
MP Ranwala was arrested while receiving treatment and was later released on bail on December 12 following an order by the Mahara Magistrate’s Court. Police said he was arrested on charges of failing to prevent an accident and reckless driving.
Investigations are ongoing. (Newswire)