Thirteen youths who allegedly organised and participated in dangerous motorcycle races for money along the Maharagama–Pannipitiya High Level Road have been remanded in custody until the 18th of this month.
A total of 18 youths were arrested by Maharagama Police and produced before the Nugegoda Magistrate’s Court, which ordered the remand of 13 suspects. Police also took into custody 11 motorcycles and a three-wheeler in connection with the incident.
Investigations have revealed that the races were organised through a WhatsApp group and involved several motorcycles, including high-powered bikes. Police said the suspects rode the motorcycles in a reckless and dangerous manner, at times carrying both men and women as pillion riders, while causing loud disturbances to the area.
Following complaints from residents about the noisy and hazardous racing activities, a special police team conducted an operation and made the arrests. The suspects are residents of Maharagama, Homagama, Mattegoda and Kottawa.
Meanwhile, a group of youths taken into police custody have alleged that they were arrested and assaulted by police despite not being involved in the illegal races. Police investigations into the incident are continuing.
