May 05, Colombo (LNW): Authorities have intensified their crackdown on election-related misconduct ahead of Sri Lanka’s 2025 Local Government polls, with police confirming the arrest of multiple candidates and party affiliates within a 24-hour period.
Eight individuals contesting in the upcoming local elections were detained between 6 a.m. yesterday (04) and the same hour this (05) morning, following alleged breaches of electoral regulations, according to officials.
Law enforcement sources also reported that five supporters affiliated with various political factions were apprehended during the same window.
These latest detentions form part of a broader nationwide effort to curb violations during the critical lead-up to polling day. Since early March, the cumulative number of arrested candidates has climbed to 54, whilst 204 individuals identified as political party supporters have also been taken into custody on similar charges.
In addition to the arrests, 46 vehicles believed to have been used in connection with illegal campaign activities have been impounded. These include vehicles suspected of unauthorised transport of voters, unlawful display of campaign materials, and improper use of state or hired transport services in contravention of election laws.
Police have reiterated that they will enforce election regulations with zero tolerance, particularly during the current cooling-off period in which all campaigning is strictly prohibited. Surveillance has been heightened in key urban and rural districts, with officers monitoring both physical and digital platforms for violations.
The Election Commission has already warned candidates and supporters that any breach—ranging from public disorder to illegal promotional activity—will be met with swift legal consequences.
