Both the ruling party and opposition are accused of unleashing violence

The supporters of Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) were arrested by the Nivithigala police on Sunday.

Ratnapura acting magistrate, MLD Ranasinghe, ordered the police to remand them until Monday for their own safety.

The party activists were arrested after a clash between a group of JVP supporters and another group at a JVP protest march in Nivithigala.

Election violence

Counsel Gamini Pushpakumara who appeared on behalf of the five accused said three of them were injured in the clash.

It is the latest of a series of incidents related to upcoming Provincial Council (PC) elections.

Both the ruling party and the main opposition are accused of unleashing violence against each other in the run up to the elections.

Police meanwhile argued that it would threaten the peace in the area if the accused were released on bail.

Elections for the North Central and Sabaragamuwa PCs are to be held on 23 August.