Police have launched an intensified search for the Chairman of the Valachchenai Pradeshiya Sabha, who is reported to have fled the area following the removal of archaeological signboards in the Batticaloa District, an incident that sparked widespread public controversy after a video went viral on social media.
The Police Media Spokesperson’s Office confirmed that one suspect connected to the incident was arrested in the Kiran area, while the Valachchenai Police have also recovered several signboards that had been forcibly removed by the suspects.
It was further revealed that the Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman is believed to be directly linked to the incident, and four separate police teams have been deployed to trace and arrest him.
According to the Archaeology Department, the installation of directional and information signboards at sites of archaeological importance in the Batticaloa District commenced on November 3. However, the boards were reportedly removed on November 22 by individuals linked to the local authority.
Footage showing the boards being dismantled and taken down circulated widely on social media, triggering public outrage and prompting authorities to initiate formal investigations.
Speaking in Parliament, Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala said investigations have commenced to arrest all those responsible and confirmed that the matter has already been reported to court.
He stressed that legal action will be taken against anyone found to have interfered with state property and archaeological heritage. (Newswire)