Sri Lanka: 63 arrested after violence in Kataragama Jan. 21

Event

At least 63 people were arrested following violent clashes in Kataragama on Sunday, January 21. Clashes erupted between police and protesters when a crowd reportedly attacked a local police station. No injuries were reported, although police used tear gas to disperse the crowd. An increased security presence should be expected in Kataragama in the coming days.

Context

Sunday’s protest was in response to an incident in which a police officer allegedly shot and killed a man who was on a motorcycle and had defied police orders to stop on Saturday, January 20. The officer involved in the shooting has been arrested and an investigation has been launched into the incident.

Advice

Individuals in Kataragama are advised to monitor developments to the situation, to avoid any large public gatherings as a precaution, and to adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.