Situation under control after communal violence in Sri Lanka

The situation in Sri Lanka's Gintota after communal clashes between Sinhalese and Muslims has been brought under control, the Colombo Page reported.

The Law and Order Minister Sagala Ratnayaka said that the law and order being established in the area.

The security has been beefed up in the area.

Additional Police battalions, the Police Special Task Force, the Anti-riot Squad and the military were called in last night to bring the situation under control, Ratnayaka said.

"I am aware that some political groups are now desperately making unsuccessful attempts to make this minor incident a great Sinhala-Muslim communal clash. I urge the public not to be misled by their false propaganda of these extremist political gangs," Minister Ratnayake said.

A curfew has been imposed until 9 am today under the instructions of the President and the Prime Minister.

"I am aware that some political groups are now desperately making unsuccessful attempts to make this minor incident a great Sinhala-Muslim communal clash. I urge the public not to be misled by their false propaganda of these extremist political gangs," Minister Ratnayake said.

The Law and Order Minister noted, "The members of those extremist political gangs are now in the process of disseminating false videos and news on Facebook to stir up communal sentiments. I tell them to stop these actions immediately."

"I stress that stern action will be taken in accordance with the law, against everyone, who spread propaganda inciting racial and religious clashes, regardless of their status and political affiliations," he added.

The Police has arrested 19 people so far from Galle.