The Embilipitiya town was shut down today as a hartal was launched this morning against the Embilipitiya Police over a death of person.

Shops in Embilipitiya town were closed and black flags were raised as a part of the hartal. More than a thousand people gathered near the clock tower in the centre of the town and protested against the police, blocking the roads and burning tires.

The protest was launched over the death of a youth following a clash between police and a group of civilians last Sunday at Mahaela, Embilipitiya. Seven people including policemen were admitted to hospital following the clash. One person died today morning while receiving treatment at the ICU of Ratnapura Hospital.

Witnesses alleged that the police demanded for alcohol from the house where a party was taking place. The Embilipitiya ASP had also arrived at the scene, and had allegedly threatened some people.

The protesters demanded for the arrest of the Embilipitiya ASP.