Inspector General of Police N.K. Illangakoon today said that the tense situation which prevailed in Grandpass was completely brought under control by this morning and that steps have been taken to protect the peace in the area by deploying additional troops including the STF.

A violent mob attacked a mosque in the Grandpass area last night, resulting in clashes which had left around 8 injured and several houses nearby damaged.

Police curfew was imposed in the area while hundreds of police, including anti-riot squads and elite Special Task Force commandos, continue to remain on alert in the area.

The Police Chief said certain groups are continuing to make false statements despite the situation being brought under control by the police.

He stated that certain misleading statements have been made regarding the incident and that certain websites have inaccurately reported the incident.

The situation in Grandpass was resolved without allowing it to escalate any further, the IGP said, adding that problems should be solved through discussions without resorting to violence.

Conflicts should not be created over to religious ideologies at a time when the fruits of peace can can be enjoyed as a country affected by war, Illangakoon said.

He also emphasized on the importance of the public acting intelligently during such times.