Three men have been arrested by the Unawatuna Tourist Police for allegedly impersonating Tourist Police officers, unlawfully detaining a Brazilian national and demanding a ransom of Rs. 3 million.
According to police, the Brazilian tourist was staying at a guesthouse in Thalpe, Galle, when two suspects arrived claiming to be Tourist Police officers. The pair allegedly searched the victim's room and seized his Brazilian passport, United States documents, mobile phones and several other personal belongings.
Police said a third suspect later joined the two men, after which the group allegedly handcuffed and threatened the tourist. The suspects reportedly claimed that a bribe had to be paid to a senior police officer in Colombo to prevent the Brazilian national from being arrested.
The suspects allegedly demanded Rs. 3 million from the victim, claiming they had already raised Rs. 200,000 by pawning a motorcycle and insisting that the remaining Rs. 2.8 million be paid immediately.
Following a complaint, officers attached to the Unawatuna Tourist Police launched an investigation and arrested the three suspects, aged 25 and 26.
Police also seized an Alto car believed to have been used in the commission of the crime.
The suspects are due to be produced before the Galle Magistrate's Court, while further investigations are continuing.
