A high-level meeting was held yesterday (23) at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake, jointly chaired by Deputy Minister of Ports and Aviation Janith Ruwan Kodituwakku and Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal (Retd) Sampath Thuyacontha, to review and strengthen overall security at the country’s main international gateway.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Defence, the meeting focused on key issues related to enhancing airport security, curbing illegal activities, and improving inter-agency coordination and response mechanisms to potential threats.
Addressing the participants, Defence Secretary Thuyacontha highlighted the critical importance of maintaining the highest standards of security at the BIA, emphasizing its central role in national security, economic development, and international connectivity. He underscored the need to ensure the safety of passengers, airline crews, airport staff, and all individuals involved in airport operations.
He commended the dedication of all stakeholders and stressed the importance of continuous coordination and vigilance to safeguard the facility and uphold international aviation security standards.
During the discussions, participants shared practical observations and challenges faced in their respective areas, proposing solutions to improve the efficiency and responsiveness of existing security measures. It was unanimously agreed to establish a comprehensive mechanism to streamline the efforts of all relevant institutions, fostering closer collaboration and a more unified approach to airport security management.
Following the meeting, the Deputy Minister, Defence Secretary, and other senior officials conducted an inspection visit of the BIA premises to assess the current security arrangements.
The session was attended by top officials from key state institutions, including the Secretary to the Ministry of Ports and Aviation, Chief of National Intelligence, Inspector General of Police, Director General of Sri Lanka Customs, Director General of the State Intelligence Service (SIS), Chairman of Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka), Director General of the Civil Aviation Authority, Controller General (Actg.) of the Department of Immigration and Emigration, Director of the Border Risk Assessment Centre, Director General of Military Intelligence, Director of Air Intelligence (SLAF), Senior DIG Western Province, DIG Colombo North, DIGs of the Police Narcotics Bureau and Special Branch, Director of Quarantine Services, and senior Tri-Forces, Police, and State officials.
