Jaffna Parliamentarian Ramanathan Archuna has been granted bail by the Mallakam Magistrate's Court today, April 29th, following his arrest in connection with an alleged firearm threat during a land dispute.
The incident reportedly occurred on April 25th in Periyavilan, Jaffna, while the MP was engaged in clearing what he claimed was his ancestral land. A group of individuals, including two men and five women, arrived at the location, asserting their claim to a portion of the property. An argument ensued, during which the MP allegedly displayed a firearm and made threats. A video of the altercation has since circulated on social media.
The dispute centers on a plot of land for which a case was pending at the Mallakam Magistrate's Court. It has been reported that the Mallakam Magistrate's Court had previously ruled the disputed land belonged to MP Ramanathan Archuna. However, a woman involved in the confrontation continues to claim ownership of a portion of the property.
MP Archuna was arrested on April 27th by Ilavalai Police. He was taken into custody when he arrived at the Ilavalai Police Station to provide a statement, reportedly surrendering through his lawyers. He faces charges including criminal intimidation, brandishing a firearm, criminal trespass, and verbal threats under the Firearms Ordinance. Following his arrest, the pistol issued to MP Archuna was taken into police custody.
After being produced before the Mallakam Magistrate's Court on April 27th, MP Archuna was remanded until April 29th. Today, April 29th, he was again produced before the court and granted bail on the condition of two surety bails. Separately, one of the women involved in the confrontation was also arrested on April 27th.