Opposition MP Chamara Sampath Dassanayake today expressed strong criticism in Parliament over the portrayal of the gunman involved in the murder of underworld figure Ganemulla Sanjeewa.
Dassanayake slammed authorities for allowing images of the shooter to circulate online, accusing them of turning the criminal into a “hero.”
During his address, MP Dassanayake pointed out that inappropriate pictures of the suspect had surfaced, showing the gunman allegedly engaging in affectionate behavior with authorities.
“Do not let them share pictures of the gunman. Look at the pictures, the criminal seems to be displaying affectionate behavior with the authorities,” he remarked, calling for restraint in how such incidents are handled publicly.
He urged the Minister of Public Security to launch an investigation into how the incident was managed, particularly in regard to the media’s role.
MP Dassanayake also questioned the narrative around the suspect’s arrest, suggesting that the gunman was apprehended not due to the efficiency of the Police, but following a tip-off from Dubai.
In response, Minister Ananda Wijepala acknowledged concerns but clarified that some of the images circulating online had been manipulated using Artificial Intelligence (AI).
He called on MPs to verify facts before presenting such matters in Parliament, stressing the need for responsible handling of sensitive issues.
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