Attacks spread to other parts of the town, the Muslims attempted to stage a protest the following day, demanding police action. The Police fired on the protesters killing a Muslim. Following these incidents curfew was imposed in the area. But destruction of Muslim property continued during curfew hours.
Mobs killed two other Muslims. Reports say 127 shops, 37 houses and 156 vehicles, almost all belonging to Muslims, were destroyed. Three factories were burned and three mosques were damaged. Initial estimate suggest that the damage may be in the region of Rs 300 million ($3.4 million).
Labour minister Alavi Moulana has accused the police of failing to take proper action. Police failure has been due to political patronage enjoyed by the offenders, sources say. Muslim groups have demanded action against Rural Industrial Development minister Maheepala Herath, who is alleged to be behind the protection racket. Local people also allege that Sinhala Weeravidhana and political party Sihala Urumaya had been involved in a campaign of incitement against the Muslims.
In Colombo, Muslim civilians inspired by the Muslim United Liberation Front (MULF) staged a protest before the Maradana railway station. The police tear-gassed and attacked the demonstrators. In the violence that ensued, five policemen and 20 Muslims were injured. The police arrested 23 people, including MULF leader Mujibur Rahuman.
The government imposed a 12-hour curfew in the capital from 6pm on 4 May. A ministerial committee, headed by the President, will plan reconciliation measures. The committee includes Media minister Anura Yapa, who had dismissed the violence in Mawanella as a minor issue. The Human Rights Commission is conducting its own investigation.
Government ally, the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) says that the attacks were pre-meditated, to destroy the economic base of the Muslim people and has warned that it may review its position in the government. The SLMC has demanded the appointment of a presidential commission of enquiry.