The Colombo Additional Magistrate’s Court has ordered the immediate arrest of individuals allegedly involved in violating regulations and obstructing public officials during a protest demanding the release of imprisoned Ven. Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera.
Colombo Additional Magistrate Lahiru Silva issued the orders to the Cinnamon Gardens Police after considering two complaints filed in connection with the protest held at Viharamahadevi Park in Colombo.
The court ordered Police to arrest individuals who allegedly used loudspeakers without a valid permit during the protest, as well as those accused of obstructing Colombo Municipal Council officials and park authorities from carrying out their duties.
The complaints were submitted by Cinnamon Gardens Police Officer-in-Charge, Chief Inspector Sagara Dayaratne.
Police informed the court that Buddhist monks and civil activists had continued their protest at Viharamahadevi Park despite court orders and had used loudspeakers without obtaining the necessary permission.
In a separate complaint, Police alleged that protesters had obstructed municipal officials who attempted to remove banners, posters and cutouts illegally displayed within the park premises.
The Magistrate directed Police to examine CCTV footage and video recordings to identify those responsible, arrest them and produce them before the court.
Meanwhile, the court also ordered the closure of proceedings relating to an interim order previously obtained by the Cinnamon Gardens Police concerning the protest.
The decision was made after Police informed the court that the protest had ended. (Newswire)