Media Minister orders stern action

Media Minister Lakshman Yapa Abeywardana issuing a statement regarding the assault, instructed the authorities to take stern action against the culprits.

He said: "I regret to state this afternoon several mediamen were assaulted and their equipment damaged near the Colombo Medical Faculty." "I believe the mediamen have freedom to hold discussions on any important event taking place anywhere, procure news and conduct media coverage as well. We all accept that the majority of the mediamen act with dedication to expose the truth to the country."

"We also accept that security be provided to them and they have the right of access to information while expressing my regret over the assault on the mediamen. I wish to stake that the IGP and others concerned have already been asked to hold an inquiry and bring the culprits to book."

"I would like to convey my personal regret to the aggrieved parties."