IGP orders tight control over drones

Colombo, March 6 (Daily Mirror) - The Sri Lanka Police has issued a warning to prevent the misuse of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, in activities that could threaten national security or be used to carry out terrorist attacks. The Inspector General of Police has instructed all police stations to ensure that institutions importing drones and drone parts, as well as businesses selling or repairing them, fully comply with the Civil Aviation Act and maintain proper records in accordance with the law.

The Sri Lanka Police has issued a warning to prevent the misuse of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, in activities that could threaten national security or facilitate terrorist attacks.

Police said that recent information revealed that certain institutions are importing drones and spare parts into the country in ways that could pose a security risk. 

The Police have raised concerns that the current handling of drone imports, sales, and related services may not fully adhere to the legal framework prescribed by the Civil Aviation Act No. 14 of 2010, which regulates the import, trade, and operation of drones and other pilotless aircraft.

Under the provisions of the Act, any operation of drones within Sri Lanka must be authorised and regulated by the Civil Aviation Authority. The Authority has the power to suspend, restrict, or permit the use of pilotless aircraft depending on safety and security considerations, and has previously suspended the validity of existing drone permits in light of national security concerns.