November 05, Colombo (LNW): The Government intends to maintain its nationwide campaign against illegal drugs until the narcotics problem is eliminated from Sri Lanka, Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala has declared, reaffirming that the fight against drug trafficking and substance abuse will remain a national priority.
The Minister made these remarks while attending an anti-narcotics awareness march at Galle Face Green this morning, organised to mark the first anniversary of the ‘Ratama Ekata – A United Nation’ national operation.
The march, which commenced under the patronage of Minister Wijepala, brought participants together in a public awareness initiative aimed at highlighting the harmful consequences of drug use. The procession moved towards Kollupitiya, carrying its anti-drug message to the wider community.
Addressing the gathering, Wijepala said the authorities were continuing efforts to dismantle drug trafficking networks and prevent illegal substances from entering and circulating within the country. He stressed that disrupting the supply chain remained a key component of the national campaign.
Alongside enforcement measures, the Government was placing considerable emphasis on prevention and public education, with particular attention being given to protecting children and young people from becoming victims of substance abuse.
The Minister noted that tackling drug addiction required more than action by law enforcement agencies, explaining that families, educational institutions, community organisations and the public all had important roles to play in confronting the problem.
He said the campaign had increasingly become a collective social responsibility, with the participation and cooperation of citizens essential to building a safer environment for future generations.
Wijepala also called for sustained public support and a united approach, arguing that overcoming the narcotics threat would require consistency, determination and cooperation across all sections of society.
Addressing concerns about the Government’s approach to public freedoms, the Minister gave assurances that the anti-drug campaign would not be used as a justification for introducing or enforcing oppressive laws against ordinary citizens.
He maintained that democratic principles, individual freedoms and the right to express dissenting opinions would continue to be respected, adding that the Government had upheld this position over the past two years and intended to maintain it.
Reiterating his commitment to the national operation, Wijepala urged the public to remain actively involved in the fight against narcotics, stressing that eliminating the drug menace was essential to protecting the country’s social fabric and securing a healthier future for the next generation.
