Jeddah, Jumada II 13, 1439, Mar 1, 2018, SPA -- The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) expresses deep concern at the reports of the heavily tense situation after a mosque, several hotels and vehicles belonging to Muslims in Ampara were attacked by mobs leading to major tensions in the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka. While expressing its concern, the OIC stresses the need to protect the rights of the Muslim minority, foremost of which is the right to observe their religious practices without harassment or any direct or indirect breaches and to earn their livelihoods and conduct their business under full protection of the law. In this context, the OIC Secretary General calls on the Government of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka to proceed expeditiously with an investigation of such abuses and to ensure the safety and security of the Muslim minority while practicing their religious rights in accordance with all relevant international human rights conventions and instruments. --SPA 19:30 LOCAL TIME 16:30 GMT www.spa.gov.sa/w630663