Ministry of Defence - Sri Lanka

Defence Ministry Backs Strict Crackdown on Organized Crime and
Recovering of Illegal Firearms

February 22, 2025
  • Measures to recover illegally issued firearms continues

The Ministry of Defence has reaffirmed its commitment to the strict enforcement of the law against members of organised crime gangs. This stance was highlighted during a special media briefing chaired by Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd), held at the Government Information Department today (February 22), to raise awareness about the government's efforts to combat the recent surge in criminal activities by these gangs across the island.

The Defence Secretary attributed the rise in criminal activities by these criminal gangs to decades of political protection. He assured that under the current administration, such groups would no longer receive any support. The government is committed to implementing the law swiftly and strictly to curb these activities and bring those involved to justice.

In line with government directives, the Ministry of Defence has initiated a systematic audit of firearms that were illegally issued for personal protection. This effort, supported by the tri-forces, has led to the recovery of almost all such firearms, with only a minimal number still outstanding. The Defence Secretary expressed confidence that this initiative would help eliminate the current state of confusion in society and prevent the illegal issuance of firearms in the future.

Addressing concerns about former military personnel engaging in criminal activities, the Defence Secretary noted that many of such individuals involved in recent crimes had unofficially left or been discharged from military service shortly after receiving weapons training. He assured that necessary actions are being taken, with the assistance of the Police, to apprehend these individuals.

The briefing was also attended by Secretary to the Ministry of Public Security D.W.R.D. Seneviratne, Acting Inspector General of Police Priyantha Weerasuriya, and a group of journalists.