Sri Lanka’s military have opened fire to quell rioting at a fuel station, officials say, as unprecedented queues for petrol and diesel were seen across the bankrupt country.
As the pump ran out of petrol, motorists began to protest and the situation escalated into a clash with troops, police said.Sri Lanka is suffering its worst economic crisis since independence, with the country unable to find dollars to import essentials, including food, fuel and medicines. Police said clashes involving motorists erupted at three locations over the weekend. At least six constables were wounded in one clash while seven motorists were arrested.
The country is also facing record high inflation and lengthy power blackouts, all of which have contributed to months of protests.