August 31, Colombo (LNW): A full-scale inquiry is currently underway into the activities of an alleged underworld figure known as ‘Kehelbaddara Padme’ and several of his close associates, according to Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs Ananda Wijepala.
Speaking to the reporters at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), Minister Wijepala declared that the time has come to decisively dismantle the criminal networks that have embedded themselves across the country.
He acknowledged that these syndicates had not only expanded their reach over many years, but had often operated with impunity due to the tacit approval—and at times, open support—of certain political actors.
Without naming names, the Minister criticised the culture of political patronage that allowed such groups to flourish in both rural and urban areas. He stated that it was this environment that gave rise to a deeply entrenched system of organised crime, one that preyed on vulnerable communities and obstructed legitimate governance.
“We cannot allow this cancer to spread any further,” he said. “This is a pivotal moment to restore the rule of law and reassure the public that no one, regardless of influence or affiliation, is above the law.”
Minister Wijepala went on to note that security agencies have been instructed to act without hesitation or political interference.
