The suspects, all under the influence of liquor at the time of the incident, also include a civil defence force member and a civilian employee of the Army.

They were produced before Anuradhapura magistrate Harshana Rajakaruna and remanded until September 26.

The girl was living with her father at their home, as her mother had got separated a few years ago and lives with another man.

A few days ago, the three men had taken liquor at the house and then raped her.

She had been threatened against telling anyone about the incident.

However, she had told a relative, who had complained to Anuradhapura police.

The girl was examined by the Anuradhapura Hospital JMO, who has confirmed that she had been raped.

She is now under probationary care.