Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has raised serious concerns over the escalating threats to public security, particularly the police and judiciary—two key pillars of law and order. Addressing Parliament today, he condemned the recent courtroom killing of a suspect, stating that it has severely undermined respect and fear for the judiciary and its judges. He described the terror judges experience when gunfire erupts in a courtroom as “indescribable” and questioned what guarantees the government could provide to prevent such incidents in the future.
Premadasa expressed his views on the recent wave of killings that have destabilized law and order across the country. He highlighted that, at present, the woman accused of orchestrating the courthouse murder, along with the former Inspector General of Police (IGP), is evading justice, with law enforcement unable to locate them. He further warned that the country’s security has collapsed, citing the brutal killing of the former superintendent of Boossa Prison on the 13th, as well as a string of shootings in Weliweriya and Gampaha. Additionally, he noted the discovery of a young man’s body in Agunukolapalassa and reported ongoing human rights violations in Meegahakivula, Taldena, and Muthur.
“A Three-Headed City of Crime Has Emerged”
Premadasa declared that Sri Lanka has now turned into a “three-headed city” akin to Vishal Kandy, where violence, brutality, gang activity, and terrorism have overrun society. He asserted that the government must take responsibility for the worsening public security situation and urged authorities to take immediate steps to curb the wave of killings and lawlessness. “The government should seek expertise if necessary, but action must be taken to put an end to this barbarism,” he emphasized.
“How Can Rule of Law Exist if the Former IGP Cannot Be Arrested?”
The Opposition Leader also raised alarm over the safety of prison officers, questioning how they can effectively perform their duties if they continue to face threats even after retirement. He called for a national program to end this violent culture, assuring that the opposition is prepared to extend its full support in this regard. “If the former IGP remains untraceable, it raises serious concerns about the rule of law. The government must provide answers instead of making a mockery of the situation,” he stressed.
Premadasa concluded by reiterating the urgent need for decisive action, warning that without immediate intervention, the country’s security crisis will only worsen.
