Recent reports have highlighted concerns regarding the emergence of armed groups in Sri Lanka’s North and East, with the government and intelligence agencies closely monitoring the situation. During a parliamentary debate on the Ministry of Defense’s expenditure on February 28, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake addressed the issue, stating that two key areas have been identified where armed groups could pose a significant threat to national security.
Emerging Threats to National Security
President Dissanayake pointed out that history has shown that national security threats in Sri Lanka have often stemmed from racism and extremism. He cited past events such as the prolonged civil conflict and the Easter Sunday attacks of 2019, emphasizing that extremism remains a persistent risk.
“If we look at history, one of the times that national security was most threatened was due to racism and extremism. During the long civil war, these were the root causes. Similarly, if the Easter Sunday attack threatened national security, racism and extremism played a key role in it,” he said.
The President assured Parliament that his government would take firm action to prevent the resurgence of such threats. “We will never allow racism and extremism to rise again in our country. While we are committed to repealing the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), we must establish a legal framework to address organized crime and extremist tendencies,” he added.
Focus on Batticaloa and Jaffna
President Dissanayake stated that intelligence agencies have identified two locations where such activities could escalate—Batticaloa in the Eastern Province and the Northern Province.
“We have identified two places where such armed activity could emerge. One is Batticaloa, where certain groups have been mobilizing. Another is the North, where some individuals are forming armed groups under their leadership. We believe there is a coordinated effort to activate these groups simultaneously,” he warned.
The President reiterated that his government is taking proactive measures to address these threats and ensure the safety and stability of the country.
Concerns Over the ‘Super Muslim’ Organization
Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala also addressed concerns about an organization called ‘Super Muslim,’ which is reportedly active in the Kalmunai area. Based on reports from local residents, authorities have been investigating the group’s activities, particularly in relation to education and religious teachings.
“We have received information that children in the Kalmunai area do not want to attend school and are being exposed to teachings that contradict traditional Islamic beliefs. The police have been instructed to look into these claims,” Minister Wijepala said.
The minister further stated that security forces remain vigilant and have been directed to take necessary actions based on their findings. He also reminded that several organizations were banned following the Easter Sunday attacks in 2019 due to similar concerns.
Dr. Rice Responds to Allegations
Following media reports, BBC Sinhala reached out to a person named Dr. Kalenthar Lebbe Mohamed Rice, who was mentioned in connection with the Kalmunai investigations. Dr. Rice, a 51-year-old doctor working at the Kalmunai Base Hospital, denied any involvement in extremist activities and claimed that he has been unjustly targeted.
“I have been questioned more than 100 times by the CID, TID, SIS, and military intelligence since the Easter attacks. If I had done anything wrong, the authorities could have arrested me at any time,” Dr. Rice said.
He acknowledged being a former member of the Tablighi Jamaat, but distanced himself from the group, stating that he was removed around 2018–2019 due to ideological differences.
“These people have spread false information about me out of personal grudges. I do not run any organization. I have not received money from any group. Even though I am a doctor, I do not conduct private medical consultations,” he explained.
Dr. Rice, who studied at Wesley Mixed School in Kalmunai and later at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura’s Medical Faculty, said that his way of dressing may be different from other Muslims but does not signify any extremist affiliation.
Government Monitoring the Situation
At a cabinet briefing held on March 4, Cabinet Spokesperson and Minister Nalinda Jayatissa confirmed that security forces are actively monitoring the situation in Kalmunai and other identified areas.
“The intelligence services have identified some concerns regarding activities in the Kalmunai region. The President has already spoken about the broader security concerns in the East and North. While we cannot disclose all details at this stage, we assure the public that the security forces are keeping a close watch on the developments,” Minister Jayatissa said.
He also emphasized that the government is committed to ensuring national security while respecting the rights of all communities.
As concerns over potential armed activities grow, the Sri Lankan government is taking steps to prevent any resurgence of extremism or violence. With heightened surveillance and intelligence operations in place, authorities are closely monitoring developments in the Eastern and Northern Provinces. However, individuals like Dr. Rice claim they have been unfairly targeted, raising concerns about the balance between security measures and individual rights.
The situation remains under scrutiny as intelligence agencies continue their investigations.
