October 07, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lankan law enforcement launched a sweeping operation across the island yesterday (06), leading to the arrest of over 700 individuals suspected of various offences, including drug-related crimes, illegal alcohol distribution, and broader criminal activity.
According to the Police Media Division, the large-scale operation, conducted over a 24-hour period on 6 October, saw 28,476 individuals subjected to checks at various locations nationwide.
Officers carried out targeted inspections in both urban and rural areas as part of a continuing crackdown on organised crime, illicit substances, and threats to public safety.
Among those arrested were 13 individuals believed to have direct ties to criminal operations, while 409 persons with outstanding arrest warrants were also taken into custody.
Police confirmed that several of these suspects had evaded capture for months, and some are linked to ongoing investigations into organised criminal networks.
Traffic enforcement also featured prominently in the operation. Nineteen individuals were apprehended for driving under the influence, while 20 others were charged with reckless driving.
In addition, authorities flagged 3,483 traffic violations ranging from driving without valid documentation to dangerous manoeuvring and disobeying road rules.
