President vows no political protection for criminals or drug traffickers

Colombo, Nov. 20 (Daily Mirror) - President Anura Kumara Dissanayake said today that his government will not protect any criminal or drug trafficker and is fully committed to protecting children and the country from the growing drug problem.

Speaking at the Southern Provincial Program of the ‘Ratama – Ekata’ National Campaign in Tangalle today (20), the President said the drug issue has created a powerful illegal economy that is harming the country’s development and peace.

He explained that drug traffickers earn far more money than honest businesses, allowing them to buy influence, bribe officials and grow their operations. He also said that underworld groups have formed illegal armed gangs using young people who have no regard for life, making the drug trade even more dangerous.

The President said public officials now face a clear choice: ignore the problem or do their duty and help fight it. He stated that in the past, some criminals were protected by politicians and were even included in security teams and government committees — something his government has completely stopped.

He said some groups are trying to create fake issues and organize protests to disrupt the government’s anti-drug campaign, but added that such attempts will be defeated.

The President urged officers to carry out their duties proudly and not be afraid of underworld groups, assuring them that the government fully supports those who act with honesty and courage.

He also said that the government has set aside a large amount of money for rehabilitation and has created a proper, science-based plan to make the program effective.

President Dissanayake promised that the fight against drugs will continue strongly and that the government will work even harder each day until the problem is eliminated.