Two individuals have been arrested and remanded until January 7 for allegedly intimidating National People’s Power (NPP) MPs Wijesiri Basnayake and Ajith Gihan during their visit to a private apparel factory in Bingiriya.
The suspects were produced before the Hettipola Magistrates Court today
The arrests follow a protest against the MPs’ visit to the factory premises, during which a group accused them of extortion. A video shared by Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP Nalin Bandara shows the MPs being confronted near the factory gate, with protesters blocking a jeep displaying a parliamentary logo and verbally abusing and attacking another vehicle.
According to Police Spokesman SSP Buddhika Manathunga, investigations are underway to arrest several more individuals involved in the incident.
MP Wijesiri Basnayake stated that the visit was arranged for discussions but claimed the group misbehaved as they were leaving the premises. The protesters, however, alleged that individuals linked to the NPP, currently involved in transportation activities at the factory, were attempting to monopolize these services and oust existing operators.
“They are trying to remove us and provide their vehicles, claiming it’s their government. Many of us operate vehicles under finance loans, and their actions are pushing us out,” the protesters told the media.
In response, NPP representatives denied the allegations, asserting that they had been working to stop extortion gangs linked to defeated politicians.
The police are continuing their investigations into the incident, which has raised concerns about political tensions in the region. (Islandnews)
