Underworld Hides behind disaster relief

• Two killed in shootings last week
• This year, 110 shootings have been reported, resulting in 58 deaths and nearly 60 injuries

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya  

Sri Lanka is witnessing a surge in violent incidents, including shootings, as some individuals appear to be taking advantage of the chaos following Cyclone Ditwah, which caused widespread flooding, landslides, and over 600 deaths across the country.  

It was observed that some underworld elements are taking advantage of the ongoing disaster relief and recovery efforts, exploiting the fact that law enforcement authorities are focused on rebuilding operations  

Cyclone Ditwah struck in late November, prompting a massive relief operation involving more than 28,000 military and police personnel deployed across all provinces to assist affected communities.  

Between December 1 and 6, police recorded at least three shooting incidents in different parts of the country, resulting in two deaths and one injury. 

On December 1, a 59-year-old man was shot dead by two unidentified individuals on a motorcycle in the China Bay Police Division, Trincomalee.  

On December 3, a 40-year-old man traveling in a three-wheeler was injured in a shooting in Boralugoda, Kosgama, and was admitted to the Avissawella Hospital. Police said the suspects fled the scene on a motorcycle. Most recently, on December 6, a 34-year-old man was shot dead near the A Quarters Sports Ground in Dehiwala.  

Police data shows that violent incidents, including shootings, murders, and fatal road accidents, have already surpassed last year’s figures. In 2024, 103 shootings were recorded, leaving 61 dead and 47 injured.   

This year, 110 shootings have been reported, resulting in 58 deaths and nearly 60 injuries, with 83 of these incidents linked to turf wars between organised crime gangs, particularly drug traffickers.  

Recognising the widespread impact of drug-related crime, the government has launched a national-level programme titled “Ratama Ekata” on October 30, 2025 aimed at eradicating the menace.  

The operation had been arresting hundreds of suspects daily until Cyclone Ditwah struck the country.  

In response to the recent extreme weather, police are working closely with the Tri-Forces and the Disaster Management Centre to support relief operations, assist in evacuations, and maintain security in affected communities.  

In response to the rise in underworld activities, Police Spokesman F.U. Wootler said that the recent disaster will not hinder crime prevention efforts in Sri Lanka.  

He said that several special police teams are working to curb organized crime and drug trafficking, even amid disaster recovery operations.  

“We have identified individuals attempting to exploit the disaster, and investigations are underway. The public’s assistance in providing information despite the natural disaster has been invaluable,” he said.