Special probe into SP's killing

by Bharatha Malawaraarachchi and Ranil Wijayapala

A special investigation is under way into the killing of Jaffna SP Charles Wijewardena and strict action will be taken against those responsible, Minister of Public Security, Law and Order and Buddhasasana and Deputy Defence Minister Rathnasiri Wickramanayake assured Parliament yesterday.

"A specially trained Superintendent of Police has been sent to carry out the investigation," the Minister told Parliament at the commencement of yesterday's sittings.

He also noted that the Inspector General of Police was also sent to Jaffna. "The specially trained SP and his team are now investigating into this killing," the Minister said. Wickremanayake was responding to a special statement by Jathika Hela Urumaya (JHU) Parliamentary Group Leader Ven. Athuraliye Rathana Thera.

Ven. Rathana Thera asked as to what steps the Government had taken in connection with the killing of SP Wijewardena.

"What was the reason for not launching an operation to save his life when he was taken away? What are the steps taken to prevent harm caused to security force members by the LTTEers in civil," Ven. Rathana Thera asked.

Responding to this, Wickramanayake said SP Wijewardena had been killed in a very brutal manner. "He was killed in a brutal and inhuman manner. The Government will take stern action against those responsible for the killing who ever they are," the Minister said.