PEPILIYANA FASHION BUG ATTACK -UPDATES 3

Fashion Bug problem settled after frightening the businessman

     Though several individuals including some monks were arrested after the Fashion Bug attack which caused a big uproar, the fact that they were suddenly released after 'reaching a settlement' when they were to be presented at an identification parade is an act which had been 'influenced' according to what was told by the Minister of Justice to the BBC Sandeshaya.

     The Min. of Justice further said that he suspects that the suspects have been released within 24 hours with no justice done to the complainant party as a result of frightening the businessman that there could be problems in the future for the business in the future.

     He also said that he suspects the the group of people including monks who are supposed to have attacked the Muslim business and created much damage being released and also the fact that the suspects who created violence were released within 24 hours after publicising that the issue was settled.

     The Minister said that he had spoken to the owner of Fashion Bug about it and though he did not give a straightforward reason, he (the Minister) felt in an acceptable manner that the settlement took place as a result of 'influence'.

     The Minister further said that the Businessman had consented to a settlement in fear that if he was to pursue the matter in a legal sense, he may have to face difficulties in carrying on with the business in the future and also pointed out that such acts challenge the authority of the law.

     It was with disgust that the Min.of Justice, Rauf Hakeem had said that if the government turns a blind eye wilfully and avoid taking steps to protect the rights of the minorities, he would next consider steps that should be taken.

                                       
Audio, reporting his statement to BBC Sandeshaya is seen below: