(FMM/IFEX) – The following is a 13 June 2001 FMM press release: FMM condemns manhandling of TNL Television News reporter by special police TNL television news reporter Upendra Chitral Alwis was manhandled and scolded by officers belonging to a special police unit while covering a daylight murder case on 12 June 2001. This incident took […]
(FMM/IFEX) – The following is a 13 June 2001 FMM press release:
FMM condemns manhandling of TNL Television News reporter by special police
TNL television news reporter Upendra Chitral Alwis was manhandled and scolded by officers belonging to a special police unit while covering a daylight murder case on 12 June 2001. This incident took place at the heart of Colombo city around 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday the 12th. FMM condemns this misbehavior of police officer as a clear violation of journalists’ right to information. Mr. Upendra Chitral Alwis had shown his media accredited card to the officers involved but in response to that he was treated with abusive language. Later, after complaining to a higher officer, he was allowed to videotape the place of the murder, a TNL spokesperson told FMM.
Free Media Movement demands an immediate impartial inquiry into the incident and requests that clear instructions are given to the relevant police offices to respect journalists’ right to investigate and obtain necessary information for the public good.
Sunanda Deshapriya – Convenor
Waruna Karunathilaka – Secretary
