• Emphasises need for a firm hand against criminals
• Plans to continue operation and dismantle narcotics networks   
• Aims to eradicate underworld and seize illicit assets     

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya   

Despite criticism from several organisations including  the UN regarding potential human rights violations during the ongoing  countrywide crackdown on criminals and drug smugglers, Acting IGP  Deshabandu Tennakoon emphasised that the operation ‘Yukthiya’ has no  personal agenda, focusing solely on eradicating the underworld and  apprehending drug smugglers.   

The ‘Yukthiya’ operation, launched on December 17 last year  following the appointment of Tennakoon as the Acting IGP, has resulted  in the arrest of over 40,000 individuals.   

The UN and local rights groups have voiced concerns about  heavy-handed tactics, arbitrary arrests, and potential due process  violations during the operation. Critics claim the crackdown  disproportionately affects marginalised communities, leading to  profiling and harassment.   

While denying allegations of mistreatment, Tennakoon emphasised the need for a firm hand against underworld criminals.   

“We don’t have a personal agenda with the underworld and  smugglers. Our only target is to eradicate the underworld in general,  and we don’t have personal issues with anyone. Each member involved in  the underworld and drugs are our enemies, “Acting IGP Tennakoon told  Daily Mirror dismissing criticism.   

He said that the operation is specifically aimed at those  involved in smuggling narcotics into the country and those engaged in  distribution. “We are not merely arresting individuals connected to  the drug trade; we are also confiscating their assets and properties  acquired through illicit activities. Millions of rupees worth of assets  and properties have already been seized. This action sends a robust  message to the criminals,” he said.   
He said those opposing the operation are likely benefiting  from criminal activities. “With over 65% of key individuals involved in  narcotics distribution arrested, leading to a substantial reduction in  drug availability, the operation has achieved significant success within  its first month,” Tennakoon said.   

The IGP said that there has been a 17% decrease in crime across the country since the launch of the operation’s first month.   

Commenting on doubts exist about the operation’s long-term  effectiveness, the Acting IGP said that the operation will continue  until its ultimate objective of dismantling the country’s narcotics  trafficking networks is achieved.