A new office dedicated to combating smuggling, human trafficking, and maritime crimes in the Mannar district’s maritime areas was inaugurated on Thursday, the 26th. This office, constructed with a grant of 150 million Rupees from the Australian Police, is a significant step in controlling human smuggling and trafficking activities centered around the seas off the Mannar district.
The opening ceremony featured Senior Officer of the Australian Federal Police Colombo Post Detective Superintendent Robert Wilson as the Chief Guest, emphasizing the collaborative efforts to prevent individuals from embarking on risky journeys to Australia, where the chances of success are negligible.
Detective Superintendent Robert Wilson stated, “The main aim here is to stop people from getting on boats to travel to Australia, as there is zero chance of getting there. Working with the Sri Lankan Police and other agencies within Sri Lanka means that we try to prevent people from losing their money to people smugglers through scams and other frauds and cheats. Or if they do get on a boat, risking their lives. The boats they get on are not seaworthy, and there’s little chance of getting to Australia. If they do get the chance of getting near Australia, they’ll be turned back and returned to Sri Lanka.”
