The secretary-general of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation’s Iyad Madani.

The secretary-general of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) expressed serious concern at the recent incidents of violence by extremist individuals against Muslims in the towns of Aluthgama, Beruwala and Draga Nagar in Sri Lanka.

In a written statement, Iyad Madani said the reports of several fatalities and dozens injured as well as attacks on homes, businesses and mosques “are deeply regrettable.”

He noted that the Muslim community in Sri Lanka has a long-standing presence in the country and a tradition of living in peace and harmony with their compatriots.
Muslims represents an important and active community which contributes to the cultural and economic life of Sri Lanka as a whole. The recent attacks appear to follow a rising trend of violence instigated by extremists which is spreading fear and mistrust among the population.

While appealing for calm and peaceful relations between the communities, Madani urged the authorities to enforce the rule of law, investigate the incidents and bring the perpetrators to justice.

The secretary-general expressed the hope that every possible effort would be exerted by the Sri Lankan authorities to prevent further escalation of violence.

Sri Lankan Muslims walk to safer places following attacks by hard-line Buddhist group Bodu Bala Sena in Aluthgama, 50 kilometers south of Colombo, Sri Lanka, on June 16, 2014.