• Police instructed to use maximum force including shooting   

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya

Some 59 social media groups and their administrators, which gathered people for the violent incidents on Monday (May 9) have been identified, police said.   

They said that investigations are underway to trace them under the Computer Crimes Act and the Criminal Law Act.   

Meanwhile, Police said public can share any information with the police about social media groups and individuals who have been involved in such acts of violence through toll free telephone number 1997 or by email [email protected]   

Also, all police stations have been instructed to exercise their maximum legal powers including to open fire on those involved in violent incidents.  

Police said the order was issued to prevent vehicle searches by unruly mobs or violent groups and incidents such as damaging of public or private property, looting and assault.