Obstructing peaceful protest: SSP Roshan Dias and ASP Dilruk noticed to appear in court as accused

The Colombo Fort Magistrate's Court yesterday issued a summons to SSP Roshan Dias and ASP Nalin Dilruk, ordering them to appear before the court on November 8 over a criminal accusation that they wrongfully prevented and obstructed a peaceful protest near Galle Face on October 10.

As per the provisions of the Code of Criminal Procedure Act, Fort Magistrate Thilina Gamage decided to name two high-ranking police officers as accused in a private plaint filed by journalist Tharindu Jayawardena

A group of lawyers and professionals had organised a peaceful protest, condemning the police behaviour towards the participants who engaged in a protest on October 9 to commemorate the people who died and were injured while being involved in the Aragalaya protests.

In his private plaint, Tharindu Jayawardena said police prevented the participants from proceeding further, which they had the right to do, as they sought prior permission.

The complainant alleged that the OIC of the Fort Police had been informed regarding this protest march as required by law and relevant communication was forwarded to the IGP as well.

The complainant alleged that the two accused had committed punishable offences coming under section 330 of the Penal Code (wrongful restrain) and section 59(1) of the National Thoroughfares Act (obstruction of roads).

President's Counsel Saliya Pieris, with counsel Manujaya de Silva and Jayantha Dehiattage, appeared for the complainant.