Rambukkana shooting: Kegalle SSP, three others granted bail

Four Police officers including Kegalle SSP K.B.Keerthiratne who were arrested and remanded in connection with the shooting incident in Rambukkana were ordered to be released on bail.

Kegalle High Court Judge Jayaki de Alwis made this order when the case was taken up in court yesterday. They were released on two sureties of Rs.2.5 million each.

On April 19, a group of protesters who were engaged in a demonstration demanding fuel to be supplied at old prices, had blocked all entry and exit roads into Rambukkana town, as well as the level crossing for more than 15 hours. This had obstructed the vehicular movement and train operations on the Main Line.

As a tense situation had ensued near the level crossing, the Police had fired tear gas to disperse the protesters. Later, as the situation escalated, the Police opened fire at them, killing one person.

President’s Counsel Mohan Weerakoon told Court that his client had gone to the place as the Senior Superintendent of Police in charge of the area when the people of Rambukkana were protesting for fuel. PC Mohan Weerakoon pleaded his client be released on bail under any condition.