Military forces will not be deployed to curb protests: Defence Secy.

Defence Ministry Secretary General (Retd.) Kamal Gunaratne yesterday assured military forces that they will not be deployed to suppress peaceful protests.

Issuing a statement, the Ministry of Defence said the military will assist Police if only it is requested to defend the nation, uphold the constitution and restore the peace and order among Sri Lankans in the event of a violent uprising.

It also said there was no truth concerning to posts circulated on social media which claim members of the intelligence services may walk among peaceful protesters and try to disperse the crowd by provoking a conflict or triggering a bomb blast.

“Legal action will be taken against those found to be destroying or damaging public property or private property under the pretext of peaceful protests and those who lead such illegal activities,” the statement added.