Opposition Leader calls for swift action against rising crimes

By Yohan Perera  

While highlighting that shooting incidents reported during the first 16 days in 2025, including yesterday’s incident in Mannar, many being orchestrated by Sri Lankan underworld figures residing abroad, Leader of Opposition Sajith Premadasa yesterday urged President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to act swiftly to suppress these criminal activities and bring to justice those directing these operations. 

Making a special statement Mr. Premadasa said these incidents have created an environment, where ordinary citizens are unable to carry out their daily activities freely and without fear.   

I must emphasize the alarming situation in which five shooting incidents were reported within the first 16 days of 2025. These shootings have resulted in five deaths and four injuries, creating an environment where ordinary citizens are unable to carry out their daily activities freely and without fear. According to statistics from the Police Department, international red notices have been issued for 188 individuals currently abroad. Among them, 63 have been identified as orchestrating criminal activities from overseas, including murders, extortion, intimidation, and other anti-social actions. Ensuring the right to life is the fundamental responsibility of any government. This includes safeguarding citizens’ security, protecting human rights, and ensuring access to health, food, and nutrition. As the Opposition Leader, I earnestly urge the President, the current government, and all heads of security forces to take immediate and decisive action to prevent such incidents. If this situation escalates, it will severely disrupt normal civilian life and restrict people’s freedom to go about their daily activities,” the statement added.