Police, military on high alert for today’s General Election

• In total, more than 4,500 vehicles will be in operation, while 241 anti-riot squads have been stationed across the country to respond to any potential unrest

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya

As the country prepares for today’s general election, law enforcement authorities have mobilized a massive security operation to ensure a peaceful and orderly process.   

Over 90,000 police, military, and civil security personnel have been deployed across the country, with a comprehensive plan in place to safeguard polling stations and counting centers.   

Police said that 64,000 police officers are assigned to directly oversee election security, with an additional 6,000 officers on standby.   

In addition, 3,200 members of the Special Task Force (STF) are tasked with supporting election duties.  

To bolster security, around 11,000 military personnel will be stationed in areas where police officers have been reassigned for election duties. Furthermore, 12,227 Civil Security personnel will assist in maintaining order during the election process.   

Police Spokesman DIG Nihal Thalduwa said that over 3,100 mobile patrol units will be deployed across the country, covering all polling stations and counting centres. Roadblocks will also be set up, with 269 in place to ensure smooth election procedures.   

In total, more than 4,500 vehicles will be in operation, while 241 anti-riot squads have been stationed across the country to respond to any potential unrest.   

The spokesman said that there have been no reports of significant election-related violence reported.   

Meanwhile, police said that after the voting and counting of the general election are over, security will be deployed island wide to prevent possible post-election violence.