Masked thugs attack ambulance drivers

Asela KURULUWANSA

Two members attached to the Sri Lanka Nidahas Ambulance Drivers Union of the Kandy General Hospital were hospitalised with severe cut injuries after they were attacked with a sword by a rival group while they were pasting anti-strike posters in the hospital compound on Wednesday night.

The injured are union treasurer Lalith Jayawardena and Ravi Kumar.

Kandy police investigating the incident said the attackers had not been identified as they had been wearing masks. No arrests had been made upto noon yesterday.

The Healthcare and Nutrition Ministry said Lalith Jayawardena is warded in the hospital ICU with critical injuries.

Healthcare and Nutrition Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva had pledged suitable compensation for health staff who had suffered injuries at the hands of trade union goons who tried to obstruct the functioning of hospitals and other health institutions yesterday.

He has also thanked doctors, nurses and all other health staff who helped to maintain normal health services yesterday and warned severe disciplinary action against anyone responsible for trying to sabotage health services.