The Sri Lanka Working Journalists’ Association (SLWJA) has called on the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to conduct a thorough and independent investigation into the recent attack and abduction attempt on journalist Murukaiya Thamilselvan in Kilinochchi.

The incident occurred last evening, and Thamilselvan, who filed a police complaint, is currently receiving treatment at the Kilinochchi Government Hospital.

In a letter addressed to the IGP, the SLWJA strongly condemned the attack, highlighting the persistent threats faced by journalists in Sri Lanka over the past two decades. They pointed to a history of killings, abductions, and assaults on members of the press, lamenting the lack of justice for many such incidents.

“This act of violence has no place in a democratic, free country,” the letter stated. The organisations also stressed the importance of holding the perpetrators accountable under the law to ensure the safety and freedom of journalists.

The letter further urged the police to provide protection for Thamilselvan, enabling him to continue his journalistic work in a secure environment.

The signatories, including Duminda Sampath, President of the SLWJA, and Ranga Bandaranayake, its General Secretary, called for a swift and decisive response from law enforcement authorities to address the issue.