Deputy Minister of Public Security Sunil Watagala on Tuesday (02) warned that President Anura Kumara Dissanayake is the target of coordinated online smear campaigns, stressing that such actions must not be allowed to become routine.
Speaking to a group of police officers, Watagala noted that many of the attacks are being carried out by individuals based overseas.
He said that under the current emergency regulations governing the ongoing disaster situation, no one has the right to spread false information on social media.
Watagala added that those found responsible for disseminating misinformation could face up to five years in prison.
He confirmed that 20 complaints have already been filed with the Criminal Investigation Department, and that investigations are actively underway.
However, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, in his televised address to the nation on December 01, assured the public that the recently enacted emergency regulations will not be misused for suppression.
He said the state of emergency, declared due to extensive damage from Cyclone Ditwah, is intended solely for disaster management, rescue, and efficient reconstruction efforts.
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