Police to crack the whip

Armed with the backing of a Magistrates determinations, the Police have decided to get tough from today (13) on anyone violating the curfew or  quarantine laws.

Senior Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police Ajith Rohana told reporters that over the last two days it was observed that the public had not fully respected the laws.

He said that some had even questioned the legality of the laws but the matter has now been put to rest and strict action will now be taken.

DIG Ajith Rohana said that with the Gampaha Magistrate on Monday, issuing a determination that the curfew enforced by the Police in March was legal, the Police will now get tough.

He said that over 100 CCTV cameras are being used to detect violators of the quarantine laws enforced around the country.

DIG Ajith Rohana said that policemen dressed in civilian clothing have also been deployed to ensure the quarantine laws are being strictly followed.

The DIG also said that while guidelines issued by the Police for the public must be strictly followed, in some instances the Police will be lenient if there is a valid reason.

For instance, he clarified that anyone travelling to work can be accompanied by a driver, if required. However, the driver will be questioned by the Police to verify if he actually did drop a person in an office. (Easwaran Rutnam)