Ranil's arrest: Diplomatic community engaged, U.S. India, China already briefed

The opposition sees the arrest of Mr. Wickremesinghe on what it calls 'trivial charges' is an action with chilling effect on democracy

- By KELUM BANDARA

The opposition parties have started the engagement of the diplomatic community in Colombo over the arrest of former President Ranil Wickremesinghe, an informed source said.

An opposition delegation that includes United National Party (UNP) General Secretary Talatha Athukorale, former External Affairs Minister Prof. G.L.Peiris and former State Minister Ruwan Wijewardene has already briefed the heads of diplomatic missions of the United States, China and India regarding the arrest of Mr.Wickremesinghe.

Mr. Wickremesinghe who is now in remand will be produced before the Colombo Fort Magistrate today.