Sri Lanka Police have launched a full investigation into allegations that private bus drivers are deliberately causing accidents involving newly introduced Metro buses operating on seven routes in Colombo.
Deputy Inspector General of Police W.P.J. Senadheera, in charge of Traffic Control and Road Safety, said several incidents involving private buses colliding with Metro buses had been reported, raising suspicions of an organized effort to disrupt the service.
Speaking at a media briefing at the Maharagama Police Station, the DIG said incidents had been reported near Millennium City in Athurugiriya, Rajagiriya, Makumbura, Kesbewa, Borella and Kollupitiya.
He said a private bus driver involved in incidents near Millennium City and Rajagiriya did not possess a passenger transport permit.
In another incident in Makumbura, the private bus driver was allegedly under the influence of alcohol and driving without a valid license.
The DIG also alleged that some private bus operators were preventing Metro buses from stopping to pick up passengers.
He said a comprehensive investigation had been launched on the instructions of the Inspector General of Police to determine whether the incidents were part of an organized campaign involving several individuals.
Police warned that those found deliberately damaging Metro buses could face legal action under the Public Property Act, while strict action would also be taken against drivers operating without valid licenses.
The Metro bus service was introduced to improve public transport facilities and reduce traffic congestion in Colombo. (Newswire)