A capture that didn’t click

By Ayesha Wijeratne
Photojournalist of Associated Press Gemunu Amarasinghe, who was seized and handed over to the Narahenpita police by the security committee of Isipathana College, Colombo 05 was released yesterday after being questioned.

Amarasinghe, who was taking pictures near the school, was apprehended by members of the committee who had been suspicious of the photographer’s actions. The members of the committee comprise of parents whose students attend the school. Isipathana College is situated close to Social Welfare Minister Douglas Devananda’s office.

Police sources said that upon interrogation they had learnt that the photojournalist had taken the pictures to accompany a report on the security of school children.

It is learned that a combined security programme is being carried out by the parents and old boys of Isipathana College in collaboration with the police to enhance the safety of students.

The parents’ had become suspicious of the photographer because his attire had not display media identification.

However, the police said that Amarasinghe was released after checking details relating to his media institution, home address and Registrar of Motor Vehicle.