Sri Lanka crisis: Pro-government supporters attack protesters in Colombo

2 years ago 37

Image source, AFP

Image caption,

Police were deployed to keep demonstrators and government supporters apart outside the president's office

Sri Lanka's capital is under curfew after ruling party supporters attacked crowds protesting at the government's handling of the economic crisis.

At least 20 people were injured in the violence outside the prime minister and president's offices in Colombo.

Police fired tear gas and water cannon at government supporters after they breached police lines and attacked people using sticks and poles.

Soaring prices and power cuts have led to mass protests since last month.

The island nation is facing its worst economic crisis since gaining independence from Britain in 1948.

The government has requested emergency financial help. Many Sri Lankans want President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to go.

Media caption,

Watch: Sri Lanka protests unifying a nation where ethnic fault lines run deep