Police to take stern action against fake news

(FASTNEWS | COLOMBO) –  The Police have been instructed to take strict legal action against those spreading false information on COVID-19 via social media.

Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Ajith Rohana stated that not only those creating fake news, but those also found to be sharing and forwarding such news on COVID- 19 will be arrested.

Addressing the media this evening, DIG Rohana said a 41 year old woman was arrested from the Wadduwa area in Panadura on charges of spreading false news on COVID-19 via social media.

The suspect has been identified as the owner of a grocery store, as well as an educational officer of a dance institute in the area.

DIG Ajith Rohana said the suspect will be produced in court and remanded.

He further said fake news on the instructions issued by the employer of a company to its employees relating to COVID -19 was also being spread on social media.

The DIG said investigations have been launched into the matter, and suspects involved in spreading such fake news have been identified.

Steps will be taken to arrest and remand the suspect, he added.