(RSF/IFEX) – On 17 June 1998, Lasantha Wickrematunga, editor-in-chief of the “Sunday Leader” newspaper, was attacked as he was entering his home in Nugegoda, a suburb of Colombo. Unidentified men fired at the house without injuring anyone. About 30 spent bullets were found at the scene. The “Sunday Leader” is known for criticising the ruling […]
(RSF/IFEX) – On 17 June 1998, Lasantha Wickrematunga, editor-in-chief of the
“Sunday Leader” newspaper, was attacked as he was entering his home in
Nugegoda, a suburb of Colombo. Unidentified men fired at the house without
injuring anyone. About 30 spent bullets were found at the scene. The “Sunday
Leader” is known for criticising the ruling People’s Alliance, especially in
regard to corruption.
**New case plus update to IFEX alerts date 19 and 16 February 1998**
Meanwhile, two soldiers were arrested over an attack on journalist Iqbal
Athas. The correspondent for the “Sunday Times” of Colombo was threatened at
his home by armed men in uniform on 12 February (see IFEX alerts). The men,
who Athas said were soldiers, apparently assaulted him because of
editorials he had written condemning corruption in the Sri Lankan army. The
two soldiers were later released on bail.
Recommended Action
Send appeals to authorities:
carried out thoroughly, and that the guilty parties be tried and sentenced
Iqbal
Athas in order to bring those responsible to court
able
to exercise their profession safely
Appeals To
Her Excellency Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga
President
Office of the President
Galle Face
Colombo 1, Sri Lanka
Fax: +94 1 44 6657/54 6657/33 3702/33 3703Mr. W.B. Rajaguru
Inspector General of Police
Police Headquarters
Colombo 1, Sri Lanka
Fax: +94 1 44 6174/44 6617
Please copy appeals to the source if possible.
