Govt. to extend extradition law to 56 countries

• To prevent under world kingpins, convicted criminals from seeking safe haven in foreign countries
• Law enforcement authorities experience protocol setbacks when trying to bring criminals back home 

By Sandun A Jayasekera   

The Government is to extend the extradition law to exchange fugitives between Sri Lanka and 56 Commonwealth Countries and foreign states so that Sri Lanka and those countries can exchange fugitives. 

The purpose of the move is to put an end to the trend of accused, suspects, under world kingpins, and convicted criminals seeking safe haven in foreign countries.  

The government spokesman, Mass Media, Transport and Highways Minister Dr. Bandula Gunawardana told a news conference that the government would amend the Extradition Law no. 8 of 1977 for the purpose.  

Accordingly, the newly enacted piece of legislation will empower the extradition of fugitive persons to and from 56 Commonwealth Countries and foreign states and regulate the treatment of persons accused or convicted of offences in Sri Lanka.