• Minister Alles sets deadline, warns of no amnesty for drug dealers   

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya   

In a bold move to curb rising drug-related crimes and underworld activities, the Police have initiated a special operation in the country focusing particularly on the Western and Southern Provinces.   

Public Security Minister Tiran Alles has directed Police to take stringent measures against individuals engaged in drug smuggling and underworld operations.   
Minister Alles during a community police committee meeting held in the Elpitiya Division emphasized the importance of active public support for the police force in their efforts to combat drug-related crimes and underworld activities.   

“I have given the police until June 30 only. By June 30, there should be a complete change in the drug and underworld activities in this country,” the minister said.   
He highlighted the several challenges such as those who bring drugs to the country on a large scale, those who distribute them, and those who use drugs, which should be addressed immediately.   

He said a special programme, in collaboration with the navy, is being implemented to address large-scale drug smuggling, with a specific focus on disabling the drug trafficking network.   
Minister Alles called for special support from community police units to gather crucial information about individuals involved in drug-related activities.   

He assured the public that measures have been put in place to safeguard the anonymity of informants and the information provided.   

Highlighting the growth of underworld activities linked to drugs and its impact on women and children, Minister Alles said plans are underway to introduce a 24-hour hotline from January and female police officers will be assigned to operate the unit and address instances of harassment.   

Anticipating resistance and misinformation on social media, Minister Alles emphasized that the program would continue undeterred.   

He warned against attempts to discourage these actions, stating that many propagandists are dependent on the underworld or drug dealers and receive financial backing from abroad.   
In a stern message to those involved in drug sales, the minister urged them to consider the consequences for their families. “ From now onwards, there would be no amnesty from the police for individuals engaged in such activities. Those illegally possessing weapons will not be spared from police action in the future,” he said.