Special operations to target alcohol, drug use during Sripada pilgrimage

By H.M. Sudath Hewa - Hatton

Special operations have been planned to arrest individuals and groups who bring alcoholic beverages and drugs during the Sripada pilgrimage season starting this year, Hatton Police Superintendent Pradeep Weerasekara said.  

He said the Sripada pilgrimage is a sacred journey, not a picnic, and visitors should behave respectfully when visiting the shrine.  

Bringing alcohol or drugs to the Sripada shrine is not suitable, he added.  

All police stations in the Hatton Police Division have been instructed to be on alert to arrest and present in court anyone found carrying alcohol or drugs during the pilgrimage. 
Emergency roadblocks will also be set up to check the vehicles of pilgrims, he said. 

Those caught bringing alcohol or drugs will not be allowed to continue their pilgrimage. Instead, they will spend their time in police stations and courts.  

Weerasekara urged all pilgrims to visit the Sripada shrine respectfully and without alcohol or drugs this season.