Thu Oct 30 16:48:40 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text followed by a news article:

Summary:

Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake launched a nationwide anti-narcotics operation, “United as a Nation – National Drive,” addressing the country’s growing drug problem. He warned corrupt police officers involved in drug networks and acknowledged the public belief that cleaning up the police force is key to solving the crisis. The article highlights the increasing drug trafficking and usage in Sri Lanka, particularly affecting the youth, with narcotics originating from Pakistan, Afghanistan, Europe, and India. Data shows a high number of drug-related arrests. Accusations have also been made against the military for involvement in drug peddling, especially in Tamil-majority regions. The government plans to create awareness programs and rehabilitation centers while emphasizing that no one, including law enforcement and military personnel, will be spared in the crackdown.

News Article:

Sri Lanka Launches Ambitious Anti-Drug Drive, Vows to Root Out Corruption

Colombo, Sri Lanka – October 30, 2025 – Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake today inaugurated “United as a Nation – National Drive,” a nationwide initiative aimed at eradicating the country’s escalating drug problem. Speaking at the launch, President Dissanayake issued a stern warning to police officers allegedly involved in narcotics networks, vowing to remove them from the force if they do not cease their involvement immediately.

“The belief that cleansing the police department is crucial to resolving the drug menace is, unfortunately, true,” President Dissanayake stated.

The initiative comes amidst growing concerns about drug trafficking and usage in Sri Lanka, particularly impacting young people. Located along a critical shipping route, the island nation has seen a significant increase in narcotics entering the country, primarily heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine (“Ice”), and cannabis.

According to law enforcement, a significant portion of drugs entering Sri Lanka originates from Pakistan and Afghanistan, with some also coming from Europe and India. On October 26th, an Indian national was apprehended at the Bandaranaike International Airport with nearly 3 kilos of heroin concealed in his luggage.

Beyond the police force, accusations have been leveled against the military, with Tamil National People’s Front leader Gajendrakumar Ponnambalam alleging that military personnel are actively involved in drug peddling in Tamil-majority regions.

The government is committed to targeting these networks both on land and at sea, with support from the international community. The ambitious plan includes awareness programs at the village level and the establishment of rehabilitation centers in all districts.

“No one will be spared in this crackdown,” a senior official stated, emphasizing that law enforcement and military personnel will be held accountable. “We have already arrested suspects from both the police force and the military in connection to drug-related offenses.” The government hopes that the “Nation United” initiative will serve as a turning point in the fight against drug trafficking and addiction in Sri Lanka.

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