The Sub-Inspector arrested in connection with the firearm discharge in which a 15-year-old boy was critically injured, has been remanded until November 02.
The 55-year-old police officer in question was produced before Matara Magistrate’s Court earlier today.
The incident had taken place at around 4.30 p.m. last evening (Oct. 28) in the area of Middewala, Thihagoda in Matara.
The injured boy, identified as Haresh Hasanka Deshan from Katuwanthuduwa area in Nayimbala, Matara, was rushed to the Matara District General Hospital soon after the incident and later transferred to Teaching Hospital in Karapitiya for further treatment.
Hospital sources revealed that his condition has slightly improved.
According to the police, a group of police officers attached to the crimes division unit of Thihagoda Police had given a chase to a three-wheeler being recklessly driven on the road.
The police stated that the three-wheeler had failed to heed the orders to stop. However, the vehicle was then pulled off.
The firearm of the Sub-Inspector was discharged while inspecting the vehicle, causing critical injuries to the 15-year-old’s head.
Following the incident, a tense situation ensued as the residents of the area gathered in front of the Thihagoda police station. The protesters had hurled stones at a police jeep during the tense situation.
DIG in Charge of Southern Province Ajith Rohana also arrived at the Thihagoda police station to help take the situation under control.