The security forces including the police had to make a concerted effort to control the massive protest that took place in front of and around the Mirihana President’s Residence from last night (31) till dawn and it was around 03.00 this morning when the situation was brought under control.
37 people were injured in the unrest during the protest, which included police, STF and journalists.
45 people have been arrested in connection with the incident.
Despite the tear gas and water cannons, it was very difficult to disperse the protesters and the roads from Mirihana Maharagama Road, Nugegoda Jubilee Post, Pangiriwatta Mawatha and Ambuldeniya Junction were almost completely blocked.
Meanwhile, the police have been accused of attacking the protesters who were leaving the place.
An army bus, a police jeep parked near the protest were set on fire and several other vehicles were damaged.
The people were organized to demand solutions to the existing problems including the fuel crisis, rising commodity prices and power cuts.
Police are still investigating the protest.
Meanwhile, protests are planned to be held across the country on the 3rd to protest against the government.
