In a stern response to allegations made by Public Security Minister Tiran Alles, the spokesperson for the Catholic Church, Fr. Jude Krishantha, categorically refuted the claims targeting Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith. The controversy arose during a press conference held by Minister Alles, where he asserted that Cardinal Ranjith had intervened to secure the release of Fr. Cyril Gamini, who was taken into custody for an accident. Alles further alleged that Fr. Gamini expressed gratitude to Acting IGP Deshabandu Tennakoon upon his release.

Speaking on behalf of Cardinal Ranjith in a press conference this morning, Fr. Krishantha dismissed the minister's statements as entirely false and baseless. He emphasized that Cardinal Ranjith made no effort to intervene in the release of Fr. Gamini, and the claims made by Minister Alles were aimed at defaming the respected religious leader.

"This false statement was made to defame Cardinal Ranjith. The Minister is also trying to drive a wedge between the Catholic Church and the rest of society by making these malicious claims. I must warn that this is not an advisable thing to do," cautioned Fr. Krishantha during the press conference.

The Catholic Church spokesperson called attention to the potentially divisive nature of such allegations, expressing concern that they may harm the longstanding relationship between the Church and the wider community. Fr. Krishantha urged caution and emphasized the importance of fact-checking before making public statements that could have far-reaching consequences.