Police fire shots into air to control tense situation

By Romesh Madushanka - Vanni   

The Achchuveli Police said that they had to fire shots into air to control a group of individuals who were assaulting a civilian in Nirveli area, under the Achchuveli Police division in Jaffna. 

 According to the police, this heated situation had arisen because of the actions of two young men who utilized computer technology to edit photographs taken during a relationship between a young man and woman residing in the locality to make them appear unclothed. These images were subsequently shared on social media.   

 On receiving a phone call via 119, which reported a group of individuals attacking a residence, the Achchuveli Police arrived at the scene. The police resorted to firing shots into air to restore order, due to the continuous riotous behaviour displayed by the group.   

 It has been reported that the two youths who allegedly uploaded the photos on Facebook were assaulted by the gathered crowd. While they sought shelter in a nearby house, their motorcycle was set ablaze and completely destroyed by the aggressors.   

 After rescuing the assaulted youths from the unruly mob, the police arranged for their admission to Jaffna Hospital due to the injuries sustained.   
During the incident, a police officer was also injured. Steps have been taken to arrest the suspects, and a comprehensive investigation into the incident has been initiated, according to the Achchuveli Police.