Defence Secretary urges Police to control drug menace

Defence Secretary Maj. Gen. (Retd.) Kamal Gunaratne urged Police to be committed to controlling drug menace and organised crimes by implementing effective strategies. 

Defence Secretary Maj. Gen. (Retd.) Kamal Gunaratne

He said the Police needed to be more active to control drug menace through collective efforts and careful planning.

Highlighting the importance of launching special strategies to curb organised crimes, Maj. Gen. Gunaratne directed senior Police officers, whom he met at a discussion held on Wednesday at the Ministry, to take tough action against those who were involved in illegal encroachment, filling marshy lands, extortion, forceful acquisition of private lands by organised groups, illegal sand transportation, traffic congestion and also sexual harassment of women.

Explaining President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s vision for the country’s future, he said the President had envisioned a secure nation and law-abiding society with the support of law enforcement agencies.

“If Police needs assistance to nab those criminals and control organised illegal activities, the Special Task Force and the Tri-Forces can be deployed to provide additional support,” he assured.

Meanwhile, Defence Secretary Maj. Gen. Gunaratne requested Police to perform their duties to meet people’s expectations to ensure security while maintaining their reputation.

“While a section of the community has a different opinion about Police, most people still view Police as a noble service. Public opinion about Police reflects depending on how you discharge your duties,” he said. 

Addressing senior Police officers including the Acting Inspector General of Police C. D. Wickramaratne, he said the Police service needs to be developed considering the present needs of the Police and pledged to give the same importance to the Police as to Tri-Forces. 

“It is coming under my purview and I will help to create a conducive environment for you to discharge your duties with dignity”, he said.

Maj. Gen. Gunaratne assured to develop the Police Hospital and also to provide other requirements to upgrade it.

Recalling Singapore’s popular slogan ‘Give little bit more to the country’, he said that it was the mantra for Singapore’s fast development.

“Therefore, work with commitment and give that bit more for our country to rise up again,” he requested the top Police officers who took part in the discussion.