Issuing a statement, the Essential Services Commissioner General’s office stated that accordingly, rice stocks belonging to the  Nipuna, Lakpura, Araliya, Hiru, New Rathna and Suriya brands have been taken into the possession of the Essential Services Commissioner General as per the President’s orders.

 

This was done under the direct supervision of Essential Services Commissioner General Major General Senerath Niwunhella and the Consumer Affairs Authority chairman.

 

The stocks of rice were bought under the government controlled price and were immediately transported to Sathosa outlets.

 

The statement further states that during the acquiring of the rice stocks, the owners of New Rathna rice mills took measures to systematically oppose the move and tried to prevent the officials from conducting their duty.