Hambantota clash: 24 persons released on bail

Twenty four suspects who were arrested and remanded over the clash in Hambantota on 6 January have been granted bail by the Hambantota Magistrate’s Court today.

The suspects were released on three personal bails of Rs.500,000 each after being produced before Magistrate Manjula Karunaratne.

At least 21 people, including three police officers, were injured in violent clashes between government supporters and protesters marching against what they say is a plan to take over private land for an industrial zone in which China will have a major stake. Police also used tear gas and water cannons to try to break up the clashes.