In a resolute address at the Ministry of Public Security on the morning of July 18, Minister Tiran Alles emphasized the government’s commitment to combating the ongoing violence linked to illegal firearms from the post-war period.
Minister Alles highlighted the persistent issue of shooting incidents across the country, attributing them to the continued circulation of weapons from the LTTE conflict. “Despite public concerns and recent criticisms, we are determined to tackle this issue head-on,” Alles stated. “I urge the media to investigate and report on the presence of drugs and the activities of criminal networks in communities nationwide.”
The Minister assured that law enforcement agencies are intensifying their efforts against drug traffickers and criminal organizations. He announced that recent operations have led to significant arrests, including those involved in the Athurugiriya, Embilipitiya, and Ambalangoda shooting incidents. However, he acknowledged that the challenge of dismantling the network of weapons from the war era remains formidable.
“We will continue to pursue offenders relentlessly, no matter where they are,” Alles declared, underscoring the government’s resolve to restore safety and security across the nation.