Sri Lanka Police have warned the public against spreading false information and unverified reports on social media following the rapid circulation of a photograph appearing to show a person dead on a motorcycle beneath the Kohuwala Bridge.
Police said the circulation of false and misleading information, as well as content capable of inciting violence, could cause serious harm to society and may constitute an offence punishable under Sri Lankan law.
Authorities have urged social media users to verify the authenticity of such content before sharing it.
The public has been advised to follow three basic steps: “Check, Verify and Share Responsibly.”
Users have also been urged to verify whether the original source of the information is genuine and confirm the information through reliable and official news sources before sharing it with others.
Police further warned that individuals who deliberately spread false news with the intention of causing public unrest may face legal action under the Penal Code and the Computer Crimes Act.
The public has been urged to refrain from sharing unverified information relating to incidents that could create fear, panic or public alarm.
