Security measures in Galle tightened

Reports confirm that the curfew that was imposed on six Grama Sevaka divisions in Galle was lifted earlier today (18). Local authorities have however stated that military personnel that were deployed last night will continue to be stationed within several areas of Galle. 

Police curfew was imposed in several areas in the Galle District until 9.00am today (18) due to a tense situation, Police Spokesman SP Ruwan Gunasekara said. 

He stated that police curfew has been imposed in Kurunduwatta, Maha Hapugala, Welipitimodara, Ukwatta, Ginthota and Piyandigama Grama Sevaka Divisions. 

The Police Spokesman said that the curfew was imposed in order to control a tense situation that prevailed in the area and to restore normalcy.
According to report, several houses and shops have been attacked by angry mobs in the Gintota area. 

Police sources stated that the security detail was deployed to diffuse a tense situation that ensued between two groups. It has been reported that 19 persons were arrested earlier today (18), in connection to the incident. The detained persons will be produced before the Galle Magistrate’s court today (18). 

Police Media Spokesperson Ruwan Gunasekara stated that additional Police personnel have been stationed in Galle and several areas surrounding the city to ensure that no violence ensues in the area. 

Reports confirm that 200 police officers and over 100 STF operatives have been stationed in the south following instructions of IGP Pujith Jayasundara. 

Meanwhile Army Media Spokesperson Major General Roshan Seneviratne stated that several Army battalions were stationed in several areas surrounding Galle.