Around 280 prisoners were released across the country yesterday in view of the 2nd anniversary of President’s Maithripala Sirisena in office.
Prisons Department sources said prisoners convicted for minor offences, including those who were unable to pay small fines, had been granted a presidential pardon.
A batch of prisoners serving prison terms for minor offences were released from the Batticaloa Prison under the general amnesty for prisoners yesterday to mark the 2nd anniversary of President Maithripala Sirisena's assumption of office.
A special ceremony was at the prison to mark the release under the patronage of leading members of the clergy. Prison Superintendent P.M. Akbar and Chief Jailer Prabhakaran also participated. A shramadana campaign was also carried out. the prison officers joined inmates in the event. Jaufer Khan, Batticaloa Group Corr.