During the recent Kandy Perahera festival, several vehicle owners reported damage to their cars after the police towed vehicles parked in designated "No parking" zones. The owners said that, in addition to paying towing fees, they had to cover repair costs for damages that occurred during the towing process.
According to those affected, police officers attached chains and harnesses to the rear ends of the vehicles and dragged them across the streets, which they claim resulted in harm to components such as the handbrake system, gearbox, and tyres. Some vehicle owners expressed frustration, suggesting that if the police intended to enforce parking restrictions through towing, they should receive proper training and use appropriate equipment to prevent such damage.
Authorities have not yet commented on the towing methods or the complaints regarding vehicle damage. The incident has raised questions about the handling of traffic enforcement during major events and the standards applied to towing procedures.
