C.D Wickramarathna, Sri Lanka’s acting Inspector General of Police, has instructed Sri Lanka’s CID (Criminal Investigation Department) and police to pursue legal action against those on social media criticising government officials on the pretence that it obstructs their duties.
Individuals found to be posting criticism of government officials are to be arrested and to appear before the court.
This crackdown on social media criticism has raised concerns over Sri Lanka’s response to the coronavirus given that their response is being led by accused war criminal and head of the army, Shavendra Silva.