Muslims protest controversial film

Thursday, 20 September 2012 01:01 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Hundreds of Muslims staged a protest march in Colombo against the anti-Islam film released in the US, resulting in heavy traffic and closed roads.

Around 200 protestors marched along Galle Road at the start of rush hour, heading in the direction of the US Embassy, said Police. However, the protesters were dispersed by Police before they could reach the Embassy building. Sri Lanka Thawheed Jamaath, which organised the protest, then moved the protest towards Fort.

“The protestors carrying placards and shouting slogans caused a massive traffic jam. The road was closed but was reopened a couple of hours later after the crowd was dispersed,” said Police Spokesman Ajith Rohana.

Demonstrators were protesting against the controversial film released over the internet allegedly portraying Prophet Mohammad in a negative light.

The movie has sparked international condemnation, particularly from Islamic countries, and is believed to be the reason behind the assassination of the US Ambassador in Libya Christopher Stevens and three others.

Following the film release, Indonesia, which is home to the world’s largest Muslim population, has called for the United Nations and the Organization for Islamic Cooperation to issue regulations against religious defamation.