Armed troops in Lake House after clash
Police, army personnel and Presidential Security guards were in and around the Associated Newspapers Ceylon Limited (ANCL) premises last Wednesday as the new Chairman Kesaralal Gunasekara took over duties.

The ANCL's former chairman, Nalin Ladduwehetti, had entered the premises around 4 p.m. on Wednesday and had learnt that he had been removed from the post.
Mr. Ladduwehetti who by that time had not received direct instructions about his removal had remained in the office.

Later the newly appointed Chairman of the ANCL, Mr.Gunasekara, had arrived at the institution and Mr. Ladduwehetti receiving news of the arrival of Mr. Gunasekara had decided to leave his office to avoid any confrontation.

Insiders said that at the time Mr. Ladduwehetti left the institution, the building and its surroundings were heavily occupied by armed policemen and army personnel. A group of the individuals who claimed to be from the PSD were also present at the scene, they added.

Employees said that though the presence of the police was sufficient to maintain security, in addition armed guards were also present. But Mr. Gunasekara said the armed personnel were those who came to settle the fight between the two groups of employees of the ANCL and it did not have any involvement with his taking over of the ANCL.

Immediately before Mr. Gunasekara took over, a fight had occurred between two groups of employees. Steps had been taken to inform the police around the same time but they arrived after considerable delay.

However, when the new chairman was taking over, in addition to the police, soldiers were also present. Meanwhile The Sunday Times learns that CID inquiries are also under way regarding a proposed purchase of newsprint for the institution.

Back to Top

Back to News

Copyright © 2001 Wijeya Newspapers Ltd. All rights reserved.
Contact us: | Editorial | | Webmaster|