September 17, Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lanka Police have issued a stern warning about the re-circulation of old video footage on social media, cautioning that these outdated clips are being falsely portrayed as recent events.
Authorities are concerned that this misleading content has the potential to create public unrest and compromise national security.
According to the police, certain videos—such as those depicting vehicle inspections near Katunayake Airport and scenes captured during past curfew periods—are being reshared on social platforms, giving the impression that these incidents are currently unfolding.
By presenting historical events as new occurrences, these videos risk causing unnecessary alarm and confusion among the public.
The police emphasise that the dissemination of such misleading information can have serious consequences, including the disruption of peace and public order.
In light of the upcoming electoral period, where tensions can already be heightened, the spread of false information poses an even greater risk to national stability.
Authorities are therefore urging citizens to exercise caution and verify the authenticity of content before sharing it online.
In their statement, the police highlighted the need for responsible use of social media. They reminded the public that the reckless sharing of outdated or manipulated footage not only spreads misinformation but also fosters an environment of fear and uncertainty.
This behaviour could lead to misunderstandings, unnecessary panic, and could potentially incite unrest in various communities.
To counter these issues, the Sri Lanka Police have warned that they will take legal action against individuals who are found to be deliberately spreading such misleading content.
This measure is aimed at curbing the spread of false information and ensuring that social media does not become a tool for creating discord.
