Do not be afraid to use weapons, Minister Alles tells police

• 50 motorcycle teams commence anti-underworld duties  

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya   

Public Security Minister Tiran Alles told the police yesterday that eliminating criminals from the country is not a sin and not to be afraid to use weapons.   
He made these remarks while participating in the passing out parade at Katukurunda STF Training camp.   
“Eliminating criminals from the country is not a sin. Don’t be afraid to use the weapon in your hand for the right thing and we stand by you,” the minister said.    

“The police officers who had undergone the training know what to do. They know everything that is needed. 
    If this team is not enough, another police motorcycle team will be established. We have a goal. All the police officers know what that goal is. I just want to go for that goal. I have done everything, including salary increases for all of you. I only expect you to go for the goal,” the minister further said.   
The passing out parade of a team of 100 police personnel who underwent special training at the Katukurunda STF camp to go after criminals operating in the Western and Southern Provinces was held with the participation of the Minister, IGP Deshabandu Tennakoon, STF Commandant Senior DIG Waruna Jayasundara and the Western Province Senior DIG.   These trained 50 motorcycle teams commenced anti-underworld duties yesterday.   
The team was given two weeks special training to respond to incidents involving gunmen committing crimes on motorcycles and take necessary action 
against them.