Colombo — Law enforcement agencies in Sri Lanka continue to carry out a range of crime prevention operations and legal proceedings this month, with multiple arrests and court orders reflecting ongoing efforts to uphold public safety and the rule of law.
Nationwide Police Operation
Sri Lanka Police conducted a major island-wide operation on December 24, 2025, resulting in the arrest of 597 individuals suspected of involvement in various criminal activities, including drug-related offences, illegal alcohol, and outstanding warrants. Police also checked nearly 30,000 people and took action against traffic offences such as drunk driving and reckless behaviour. Authorities said the operation aims to strengthen law and order and prevent organised crime ahead of the holiday period. (LNW Lanka News Web)
Narcotics Seizure and Detentions
In a separate operation led by the Police Narcotics Bureau (PNB), a large cache of illegal drugs was seized from a multi-day fishing vessel off the southern coast of Sri Lanka. The haul included significant quantities of heroin and crystal methamphetamine (ice). Seven suspects were ordered into seven-day detention by the Hulftsdorp Magistrate’s Court as further investigations continue into how the narcotics were brought into Sri Lankan waters. (LNW Lanka News Web)
Arrest of Police Officer for Bribery
The Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) arrested the Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the Crimes Division at Gampaha Police Station over alleged bribery. The arrest followed a complaint by a local businessman who accused the OIC of demanding and accepting money in exchange for dropping legal action in a theft case. This legal action reflects enforcement of anti-corruption laws within law enforcement ranks. (onlanka.com)
Court Proceedings: Firearm Custody Case
In Kalutara, a former senior police inspector — the Kalutara Headquarters Inspector (HQI) — was granted bail by the Chief Magistrate in connection with a case involving the improper handover of a firearm that was supposed to be in police custody. The suspect surrendered to court after reportedly evading police for some time, and legal proceedings will continue as the investigation progresses. (Hiru News)
Investigation into Delay in Arrests
In Colombo, the Chief Magistrate questioned officers of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) over delays in arresting suspects linked to a financial fraud case involving alleged investment scams. The court ordered the CID to arrest eight of the identified suspects immediately, raising concerns about timely action in high-value fraud investigations. (Ceylon Today)
Public Impact
These ongoing police actions and legal proceedings have a direct effect on public confidence and safety. Routine crackdowns on criminal activity — from drugs to traffic violations — aim to reduce crimes that affect daily life, particularly in urban areas. Meanwhile, high-profile cases involving law enforcement officials and complex fraud probes highlight the justice system’s effort to hold individuals accountable regardless of status. Swift and transparent legal action in such cases can help strengthen trust in institutions and deter future wrongdoing.
Authorities have emphasised that these efforts are part of regular and sustained measures to enforce the law and ensure communities feel safer throughout the country.
