Alistair Burt shocked and concerned at shooting

British Foreign and Commonwealth Office Minister Alistair Burt has expressed shock and serious concern at the shooting of Sunday Leader Journalist Faraz Shauketally on Friday night.

Burt who visited Sri Lanka recently, said there have been too many incidents against journalists, civil society organizations and other in recent years have had what he called “little investigation and no resolution.”

““It remains unclear whether this horrific incident was connected to the victim’s work as a journalist. The Sri Lankan authorities must quickly identify who committed this crime and bring them to justice.”

He said the officials from the British High Commission in Colombo had visited Shauketally in hospital on Saturday. “We’re ready to provide further assistance if needed,” the UK Minister said.

Minister Burt said that the UK and EU have urged the Government of Sri Lanka to do everything possible to investigate such incidences and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.