September 23, Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lankan Ministry of Defence has confirmed a new policy directive requiring all weapons, ammunition, and associated gear used by private maritime security firms to be stored within Sri Lanka Navy facilities, subject to strict military oversight.
The announcement, made in Parliament today (23) by a Defence Ministry representative citing a communication from the President, forms part of a broader initiative to strengthen control over privately held armaments linked to maritime operations.
According to the Ministry, the move is designed to improve accountability and minimise potential risks arising from the handling and storage of high-powered weaponry by non-state actors.
The decision also builds on a Cabinet-approved resolution from July 2025, which authorised the Sri Lanka Navy to take a more central role in maritime security duties across key commercial ports. Under that resolution, the Navy is permitted to operate independently in designated maritime zones, operating under the broader guidance and authority of the Ministry of Defence.
