Activist Senadhi Guruge arrested; Opp. Leader not allowed to see activist

COLOMBO (News 1st); Thee Joint Convenor of the Aragalaya National Movement, Senadhi Guruge was arrested by the Colombo Central Crimes Investigations Division on Wednesday (24).

Guruge was as a frontline activist at the Occupy Galle Face protest site.

He was arrested down Vauxhall street while returning from the Fort Magistrate's Court by the Police, despite Guruge saying tha he did not receive any Police summons.

However, the Police officer who arrested him said that Guruge must take part in an identification parade, as there is a case against him regarding the obstruction of duties, and a statement is required.

Although he insisted that he will come to the Police with an attorney to record a statement, the police officers escorted Guruge in the three-wheeler he was traveling in before an attorney arrived at the location.

Senadhi Guruge was charged with abducting and assaulting two Sri Lanka Army personnel.

Police added that he would be produced in court on Thursday (25).

Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa visited the Slave Island Police Station soon after Guruge's arrest, however was denied the opportunity to visit the activist.

SJB MP Rajitha Senaratne stated that there is no reason for Guruge to be presented for an identification parade, as he was seen on media for multiple times per day, and alleged that the identification parade is being conducted to deny bail for Guruge.