National Freedom Front Party Leader and former Minister Wimal released on a surety bail Weerawansa, who was arrested by the Thalangama Police earlier yesterday (25), has been granted bail by the Kaduwela Magistrate’s Court. He was released on a surety bail amounting to Rs  500,000.

Weerawansa was arrested yesterday morning after arriving at the Thalangama Police Station to provide a statement regarding a recent incident that occurred near the National War Heroes’ Monument in Battaramulla. 

On 18 May, Police stated that legal action would be taken against a group, including Weerawansa, over allegations of obstructing rehearsals held in preparation for the National War Heroes’ Day commemoration. During rehearsals and preparatory arrangements for the main ceremony, a group of approximately 35 individuals, including Weerawansa, allegedly attempted to enter the Monument premises without authorisation, thereby disrupting official duties and scheduled rehearsal activities. 

Officers present at the scene reportedly prevented entry and subsequently removed the group from the location. The authorities confirmed that legal action will be pursued against those involved. Meanwhile, a heated situation arose between the Police and Weerawansa when he arrived at the Monument near Parliament to pay floral tributes. He, along with a group comprising Party activists, visited the site on 18 May to commemorate fallen soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the humanitarian operation. 

However, a dispute occurred after security officials denied access to the Memorial area for the laying of floral tributes, resulting in heightened tensions at the site. Video footage also captured Weerawansa falling to the ground during an attempt to move forward as officers attempted to push the group back. Subsequently, two individuals present at the scene were arrested and placed in a Police vehicle. Weerawansa also entered the vehicle, after which the arrested individuals were later released by the Police.