Drug Money and Underworld Used for Political Power – Public Security Minister

Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs Ananda Wijepala says organized criminals and drug traffickers were used in the past by certain political factions to consolidate and maintain political power.

The Minister made these remarks while attending the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the Mirigama Police Station.

Responding to a media inquiry, Minister Wijepala assured that no group will be allowed to intimidate or threaten individuals who provide information related to organized crime.

He stated that underworld activities and drug trafficking expanded due to political patronage, noting that organized criminals and drug money were used to sustain governing power. He further revealed that investigations have uncovered instances where political parties were used to organize meetings linked to drug and underworld operations.

The Minister emphasized that the issue must be understood in its historical context, adding that political links to organized crime are now being gradually dismantled. He said the police are actively working to bring the situation under control.

Minister Wijepala also pointed out that drug traffickers and organized criminals often operate within the same networks, with many killings resulting from internal disputes within the drug trade. He stressed that the government does not condone such violence and is taking steps to prevent it.

He further noted that several underworld figures are currently overseas and that action is underway to bring them back to Sri Lanka using Interpol Red Notices. “Such incidents have occurred every year, but we are now working together with society to control the situation,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Minister announced that a new bill to control organized crime has been finalized and is expected to be presented to the Cabinet of Ministers within the next two weeks, before being submitted to Parliament for approval.