Military officer involved in civilian assault relieved of all duties: Army

Sri Lanka Army yesterday said the Lieutenant Colonel who was involved in assaulting a civilian at a fuel station in Yakgahapitiya on Monday has been relieved of all duties. 

The officer has been relieved of all duties until the conclusion of investigations into the incident, the Army said issuing a statement yesterday.

The decision has been taken on the directive of Army Commander Lt. Gen. Vikum Liyanage.

The Army said the accused Military officer has been relieved of all duties with immediate effect until recommendations of the five-member Court of Inquiry are received. 

A parallel military investigation of the Sri Lanka Army Corps of Military Police (SLACMP) about the incident is also underway recording statements.

The Security Force Headquarters – West on Monday appointed a five-member Court of Inquiry, headed by a Brigade Commander to probe the issue, related to this Senior Officer’s conduct and make its recommendations.

The officer was accused of assault after video footage of him kicking a civilian while at a fuel station went viral on social media platforms.