A senior police media officer informed Mawrata that 422 people lost their lives in 404 fatal road accidents between January 1 and March 10.
Additionally, the officer reported that 925 individuals sustained serious injuries in these accidents, while 1,572 others suffered minor injuries. The number of incidents resulting in property damage stands at 745.
Meanwhile, from January 1 to March 11, organized crime gangs carried out 20 shooting incidents targeting other criminals, resulting in 18 fatalities. Nine individuals sustained injuries, while three of these shootings caused no casualties.
In response to rising concerns, the police have intensified islandwide operations to conduct emergency checks on private bus drivers suspected of driving under the influence of drugs. Those found impaired are being referred to forensic medical officers, according to Senior Superintendent of Police Pradeep Ranagala, Director of the Police Traffic Headquarters.
Furthermore, the traffic police have been equipped with specialized drug-testing devices imported from foreign countries to enhance the effectiveness of these operations.
By Premalal Wijerathne
