Wednesday Apr 22, 2026
Wednesday Apr 22, 2026
Wednesday, 22 April 2026 00:03 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
From left: Asian Tactical Security Training Director Training D.G.M. Chinthaka, CEO Sathish Thiramunige, Head of Corporate Communications Shamali Salgado, Consultant and Advisor Indika Salgado, and Instructor W.A.D. Shantha Upul Kumara – Pic by Daminda Harsha Perera
By Safna Malik
Asian Tactical Security Training Ltd. has officially commenced operations in Sri Lanka, introducing a structured platform focused on unarmed self-defence, close protection and practical security training.
Operating under Accolade Ventures, the company functions as a separate entity from Asian Security Group, which continues its existing security operations, while the newly established training arm focuses on skills development and advisory services.
During the launch event, Asian Tactical Security Training Ltd. CEO Sathis Thiramunige said the company was formed to formalise training work that had already been carried out locally and overseas.
“While the company is new, our instructors have been actively training people for years across Sri Lanka, Italy, and the United Kingdom. By establishing TST, we have now created a professional platform to provide the full range of that international experience under one name,” he said.
While the company maintains a commercial presence, its broader focus is directed toward enhancing social awareness and practical defensive skills. Prioritising the growth of individual capability within the society as a primary goal.
The service centres on unarmed defence, particularly in contexts where legal restrictions limit the use of tools such as pepper spray or electric devices. “In Sri Lanka, individuals often cannot rely on equipment. They need to rely on their own skills. That is where this type of training becomes essential,” he said, noting that the approach prioritises reaction time, maximum efficiency and minimum damage.
Adding to this, Asian Tactical Security Training Martial Arts and Self Defence Trainer Wad Shantha Upul Kumara emphasised the use of Krav Maga and Kapap combat disciplines with deep roots in Israeli tactical history, as they have moved into the global standard for unarmed defence. Far from being just a new style, they are proven techniques that allow a person to respond to danger with maximum efficiency. “These are practical, defensive-based techniques. We train people to survive, not to fight,” he said.
He also shared that the training is not limited to these two combat styles; they also provide a wide range of other combat options and survival-based reflexes to ensure comprehensive protection for all participants.
“The emphasis is on controlling a person safely, disarming threats, restraining individuals when necessary and protecting oneself in real-life situations. These techniques are designed to be efficient and easy to apply,” he said.
He noted that such techniques are not new to Sri Lanka, having been introduced locally more than a decade ago, but said the company brings a more structured and professional approach to training.
Speaking about the instructors, he said both local and international instructors specialised in close protection, law enforcement and self-defence. The team is led by an expert panel of instructors, including Italy based trainers Stefano Maiocchi, a specialist in close protection and military training, and Eustachio Montemurro, a law enforcement officer and expert drone pilot with extensive experience in self-defence and Krav Maga. They are joined by UK based instructors Dee Thomas, a close protection trainer, and Jem Hall, a VIP security specialist with 30 years of martial arts experience in Ju Jitsu, Muay Thai, and stick fighting, as well as firearms tactical shooting.
He said these links form the foundation for the company’s planned expansion. “We are already working with international instructors and operating in the UK and Italy. As part of our long-term vision, we aim to expand further across Asia and are open to opportunities in other countries.”
Asian Tactical Security Director - Training D.G.M. Chinthaka said the programs are designed to be accessible to a wide audience. “There are no strict entry requirements. Both beginners and those with prior experience can take part, as training is structured based on the level and needs of each group,” he said.
Training duration and delivery are also flexible, with both short-term and long-term programs available depending on requirements. “Sessions can be conducted at client locations if suitable, or we can arrange venues depending on convenience,” he said, adding that costs vary based on factors such as program type, duration and number of participants.
He also ensured participants who had training with TST are not tied to the organisation, he said, noting that the company positions itself as a training platform rather than a recruitment channel. “After completing the training, individuals are free to join other organisations. Our focus is on developing skills,” he said.
Asian Tactical Security Training Head - Corporate Communications Shamali Salgado said the programs also incorporate behavioural and awareness-based elements. “In addition to physical training, we focus on communication, professional conduct and how individuals interact in different situations,” she said.
She added that the company, apart from co-services, has also conducted community-based initiatives, including self-defence workshops for young girls under institutional care. “These programs are designed to build confidence and help them handle real-world situations when they enter society,” she said.
Guided by its philosophy of “Preparedness, Protection, and Performance”, the company positions its training model as a response to evolving security challenges, with a focus on practical application, adaptability and real-world readiness.
