Former Minister and Sarvajana Balaya National Organiser Dilum Amunugama has been summoned by Police to record a statement over controversial remarks made during a recent media briefing, while an inquiry into the incident is now underway.

Police Spokesman F. U. Wootler said investigations were launched following complaints received regarding the comments, which allegedly caused harm to a minor linked to an ongoing child abuse case.

The controversy arose after Amunugama stated at a media briefing that, according to information received by his party, the arrest and detention of an Atamasthanadhipathi Thera had been based on a statement made by “a prostitute”.

The remarks triggered a backlash on social media, with many questioning the use of such language in relation to a case reportedly involving a 15-year-old child.

Following the criticism, Amunugama clarified that his remarks were not directed at the child linked to the case and claimed his comments had been misrepresented on social media.

He said the statement referred to information he had received regarding a separate incident in the Nittambuwa area and not the child involved in the ongoing case.

“If that statement caused hurt to the child, the child’s family or anyone in society due to a misunderstanding, I express my regret and apologise,” Amunugama said.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs has formally requested the Inspector General of Police to investigate the remarks, stating that the comments may have caused prejudice to the minor girl involved in the case, who is identified as both a victim and a witness in ongoing court proceedings.

The Ministry noted that the statement could amount to an offence under the Assistance to and Protection of Victims of Crime and Witnesses Act No. 10 of 2023.

Authorities have also urged media organisations and social media users to refrain from further circulating related video clips in order to prevent the child from being retraumatised. (Newswire)

The post Dilum Amunugama summoned by Police over controversial remarks appeared first on Newswire.