The regular driver of the bus involved in the fatal accident on 21 June at Dunhida, Thimbirigaspitiya, along the Badulla–Mahiyanganaya main road, was arrested today (26) on suspicion of aiding and abetting the incident, according to Badulla Police.

The suspect, a resident of Kumbukgaha Wewa in Talawa, Anuradhapura, was hospitalised at the Badulla Teaching Hospital following the accident. He was arrested upon being discharged after receiving treatment for his injuries.

Police stated that he is expected to be produced before the Badulla Magistrate’s Court today (26).

In a statement given to police, the driver claimed that he had parked the bus at the Muthiyangana bus stand with the key still in the ignition and left briefly to have a cup of tea at a nearby restaurant. He further stated that, during his absence, another driver had started the bus and was manoeuvring it to make space for another bus when the accident occurred.