Minister Silva is often accused of assaulting and threatening journalists

VFM News Manager Pradeep Anura Kumara told BBC Sandeshaya that a group led by minister's official assaulted VFM workers who were pasting posters to mark radio station's anniversary.

"It has been confirmed that the group was led by Minister Mervyn Silva's co-ordinating Secretary Amal," he said.

It has been confirmed that the group was led by Minister Mervyn Silva's co-ordinating Secretary Amal VFM official

VFM, the radio station of President Mahinda Rajapaksa's political ally, Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) celebrates one year since first went on air on 01 January.

The VFM has lodged a complaint with the police saying VFM workers were assaulted and their bicycles were burnt by minister's supporters.

However, Minister Mervyn Silva categorically denied any knowledge of assaulting the VFM team.

"I was only released from the hospital this morning," he said.

There are many other Amals in Kelaniya and Gampaha Minister Mervyn Silva

There are many "Amals" in Kelaniya and Gampaha district apart from his secretary, the minister added.

The attackers have accused the radio channel of 'slinging mud' on minister Mervyn Silva, Pradeep Anura Kumara told BBC Sinhala.com.

The group was angry that the VFM carried the news of minister Mervyn Silva being assaulted by SLRC workers on Thursday, he added.