The IGP has ordered the Director of the Police Special Investigations Unit to conduct a special probe regarding the conduct of the Chief Inspector of Panadura South Police.

The probe is in regard with yesterday’s (12) incident where 2 female Police officers were manhandled by a male officer and how several female protestors were arrested in Panadura.

Police Media Spokesperson SSP Nihal Talduwa pointed out that the Police respects the rights enshrined in the Constitution, which ensures the right to freedom of assembly and the right to freedom of expression.

Moreover, he stressed that the Police continuously emphasize on protecting the rights of women, and the special probe will also focus on whether the female Police officer was wronged in this regard.

Future action will be taken in accordance with the recommendations made by the Director of the Special Investigations Unit, SSP Thalduwa added.

Video circulating on social media over the manhandling of female protesters and female police officers, sparked severe widespread criticism and condemnation.