Comprehensive investigation into the alleged detention of Swiss embassy staffer: PM Mahinda Rajapaksa

COLOMBO (News 1st) - Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa stated that a comprehensive investigation into the alleged incident that took place at the office of the Swiss Embassy will continue, even without a complaint being lodged in this regard. Mahinda Rajapaksa, Prime Minister noted that if the rumour is true it is unfortunate and they have not responded even by 2:00 pm today (November 28). Prime Minister added that they still have not lodged a complaint at the police and the government has requested the relevant authorities to look into the CCTV footage around the area. He further added that he already met the ambassador, his assistant, the CID, DIG and the IGP regarding this matter and requested them to look into the matter as soon as possible. However, he added that despite his requests to file a complaint at the police, they have not. Prime Minister went on to note that still, they would conduct an investigation. "When we were preparing to go to India, Tamil name boards were vandalized. We must identify whether there is a connection between these two incidents." Prime Minister added. Meanwhile, issuing a press release, the foreign ministry says the government has taken immediate action to commence an investigation into the matter, that occurred on the 25th of this month. The foreign ministry also requests the Embassy of Switzerland for its fullest cooperation to enable the relevant authorities to conduct the investigation smoothly and according to established procedure. The release added that Sri Lanka's Ambassador to Germany who is concurrently accredited to Switzerland, Eng. Karunasena Hettiarachchi will be meeting with the Swiss authorities to provide an update on the investigation. Bandula Gunawardane, Joint Cabinet Media Spokesperson noted that the CID informed them that they have a launched a comprehensive investigation into this matter, and confirm the truth about this incident and identify those responsible for it.