67 percent drop in poll related incidents - DIG

by Jayampathy JAYASINGHE

A 67 percent drop in poll related incidents was recorded this time and the overall situation in the country was generally peaceful during the pre-and post election period, Senior DIG (Elections) Gamini Navaratne told the Sunday Observer.

He said there was a sharp drop in election related incidents at this year's parliamentary election compared to the last general election except for a serious crime committed at Mawathagama and other sporadic incidents reported from the Nawalapitiya electorate.

The Senior DIG said all 340 suspects arrested in connection with election related incidents from all parts of the country will be produced in courts while the Attorney General's advice will be sought to prosecute those involved in grave crimes.

Meanwhile, three post election related incidents were reported from Mount Lavinia and Matale where persons had been shot at and injured while other cases related to abuse and threat complaints. IGP Balasuriya deployed the Special Task Force (STF) to quell any violence which would stem during the aftermath of the parliamentary elections.

The Security Forces will also assist the STF to maintain law and order during this period, he said.

The Senior DIG said that no procession or meetings will be permitted following the parliamentary elections under the Provision of Act No. 1981 relating to parliamentary election. Persons contravening the Act will be committing a cognizable offence, he said.