The Sri Lankan police in Galle today detained several Democratic National Alliance (DNA) members including MP Vijitha Herath and Ajith Kumara who were staging a protest march demanding the release of their leader and detained former Army Chief Sarath Fonseka , who has been in military custody for the past six months mow .The retired General, Fonseka who unsuccessfully contested the January Presidential election against the incumbent Mahinda Rajapaksa, is under the detention of the military since February. Two separate court martial proceedings are on against the former Army Chief.The protestors were also demonstrating against the increasing cost of living in the island nation.According to eyewitness reports, the police used tear gas to disperse the protesters in the port city of Galle.Speaking to AIR/DD , the police spokesperson , Mr Jayakkody said that the protesters had become unruly and were pelting thrones at the police and damaged a police vehicle and hence , the police had to resort to the use of tear gas to disperse the protestors. According to him, five policemen had got injured and have been admitted to the hospital for the treatment.However, Arjuna Ranatunga, told AIR that the police had started tear gassing the 3000 odd peaceful protestors without any provocation and it was only later that they reacted.DNA MPs, Vijitha Herath and Arjuna Ranatunga were leading the protest march. Wife of Sarath Fonseka was also along with the protesters seeking the release of her husband.