UNP fumes over tear gas attack on protest

Saturday, 18 February 2012 02:27 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Police yesterday fired tear gas and water cannons to disperse thousands who participated in a UNP-organised protest against the crisis following the unprecedented rise of fuel prices as well as overall mismanagement of the economy.

UNP members gathered opposite the Fort Railway station shouting slogans, blaming the Government for burdening the people via the fuel hike, which the Opposition said was to cover huge losses owing to mismanagement and corruption rather than spikes in global prices, as claimed by the Government.

When the UNP protest marched towards Lotus Road, Police fired tear gas and water cannons, injuring several participants. A party official condemned the Government’s undemocratic actions against a democratic protest.

Police said 17 people including MP Jayalath Jayawardena, three DIGs and 12 police officers were injured owing to incidents connected to the protest.

A JVP organised protest on Wednesday was also dealt with a similar treatment, whilst a protest by fishermen in Chilaw saw one person killed and many injured.