The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) office in Chilaw, Vilaththawa Sippiklana, was set on fire in the early hours of November 5th, allegedly following a dispute involving local political tensions. The incident began the previous afternoon when a supporter of the National People’s Party (NPP) reportedly confronted workers at the SJB office construction site, expressing opposition to the party’s presence in the area. According to witnesses, the NPP supporter, armed with a sword and stick, threatened the workers and tore down a banner featuring SJB candidate Kogulanath Singh.
Following this altercation, authorities suspect that the office was targeted and set on fire early the next morning. Chilaw police were alerted and initiated an investigation, led by Assistant Superintendent Dhammika Hapugoda. A suspect has since been detained in connection with the attack.
SJB’s Chilaw Media Spokesperson, Nimal Jayamanna, confirmed that one of the workers injured in the scuffle was admitted to Bingiriya Hospital for treatment. The police continue to investigate the incident, which has highlighted growing tensions in the lead-up to local elections.
