COLOMBO : No one, regardless of their power or influence, can evade the law, said Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and ocean Resources Ramalingam Chandraseker, asserting that the government remains steadfast in its commitment to eradicating organised crime and drug trafficking.
The Minister made these remarks while addressing a media briefing held at the Ministry premises in Colombo Wednesday,Oct. (15).
Minister Chandraseker said that the government had earlier pledged to dismantle underworld networks and curb the narcotics trade.
“To fulfil this promise, we provided the Police and security agencies with the necessary resources. They are performing their duties diligently and with notable success,” he said.
The Minister observed that several leading figures in the drug trade had been arrested and imprisoned, while others who had previously fled the country were apprehended through coordinated international operations.
“Even those who opened fire inside court premises and escaped have now been arrested in Nepal. Such arrests, achieved through international cooperation, were unprecedented in the past,” he added.
Responding to earlier criticism by opposition parties, Minister Chandraseker said that the government had now proven its determination and capability.
“There was a time when the opposition accused the government of being unable to control shootings and violent crimes. But today, we have shown that no criminal, regardless of their connections, can escape the arm of the law,” he said.
He further noted that during previous administrations, certain criminals had enjoyed political protection, but such practices no longer exist under the current government.
“There is no room for lawbreakers under our administration. Those who looted public property or engaged in corruption will face justice. The law will also apply to those connected to the Central Bank bond scam, including Arjuna Mahendran,” the Minister affirmed.
Minister Chandraseker reiterated that the government will continue its efforts to strengthen law enforcement, restore public confidence, and ensure that justice is delivered without fear or favour.
