Serious Consequences for Criminal Gangs – Statement from Acting IGP Priyantha Weerasuriya
Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP) Priyantha Weerasuriya has affirmed that the law will be strictly enforced against criminal gangs, including those operating from abroad. He stated that political patronage for crimes no longer exists, forcing gangs to carry out illegal activities from outside the country.
Speaking at a media briefing today (22), Weerasuriya revealed that 58 organized crime groups and 1,400 of their associates have been identified. He noted that some individuals linked to the tri-forces have assisted these criminals, with nine members recently arrested for involvement in recent incidents.
So far this year, 17 shootings and five killings by bladed weapons have been reported, with all 17 shooting cases resolved. Police have also seized a significant number of illegal firearms, including 13 T56 rifles, 15 revolvers, and 21 pistols.
International cooperation has led to the extradition of 19 criminals, and further efforts are underway through diplomatic channels to bring back others. The Acting IGP emphasized the need for public assistance in identifying criminals and illegal firearms, offering rewards for valuable information.
Acting IGP Weerasuriya has vowed to crack down on criminal gangs, including those operating from abroad. He stated that political backing for crimes is no longer present, leading gangs to conduct their illegal activities from outside the country. Weerasuriya revealed that 58 organized crime groups and 1,400 associates have been identified, with some individuals from the tri-forces assisting them. There have been 17 shootings and five killings by bladed weapons reported this year, with all shooting cases resolved. Police have confiscated a significant number of illegal firearms, with international cooperation leading to the extradition of 19 criminals. The public’s help in identifying criminals and illegal firearms is crucial, with rewards being offered for valuable information.
