May 25, Colombo (LNW): Former Minister and National Freedom Front leader Wimal Weerawansa was granted bail by the Kaduwela Magistrate’s Court after being taken into police custody earlier today in connection with a recent confrontation near the National War Heroes’ Memorial in Battaramulla.
Court proceedings concluded with the former parliamentarian being released on surety bail amounting to Rs. 500,000.
Weerawansa had appeared at the Thalangama Police Station this morning to record a statement regarding the incident before officers placed him under arrest.
The controversy stems from events that unfolded on 18 May during preparations for the National War Heroes’ Day commemoration. According to police, a group of around 35 individuals, including Weerawansa, allegedly attempted to enter the memorial premises without prior authorisation while official rehearsals and security arrangements were underway.
Authorities claim the group’s actions disrupted scheduled activities linked to the state ceremony, prompting officers stationed at the site to block entry and escort those involved away from the area.
Police had earlier announced that legal proceedings would be initiated against several individuals connected to the incident.
The situation reportedly escalated when Weerawansa and a number of party supporters arrived at the memorial to pay tribute to fallen military personnel. Tensions rose after security personnel prevented the group from accessing the designated area for floral offerings.
Witnesses at the scene described heated exchanges between protesters and law enforcement officers, while footage circulated on social media appeared to show the former MP stumbling to the ground amid a confrontation as police attempted to hold back the crowd.
During the unrest, two individuals were briefly detained and placed inside a police vehicle. Weerawansa later entered the same vehicle in protest before the detainees were eventually released.