Police to boost VIP security

BY ANANTH Palakidnar

POLICE have decided to strengthen VIP security as threats to several key political figures are on the increase, Deputy Inspector General of Police Pujith Jayasundara said.

According to DIG Jayasundara the Police department is concerned about the security of VIPs from all prominent political parties. "The Police department is adopting new measures to strengthen security for VIPs to prevent them from being easy targets," he added.

Intelligence reports indicate that since the security of Colombo was relaxed with the removal of barricades and checkpoints following the signing of the Ceasefire Agreement in 2002, the infiltration of armed men has continued in a big way.

"The Police department is compelled to strengthen VIP security as the Presidential polls period is ahead."

Citing the assassination of Foreign Minister Kadirgamar, Jayasundara said that the slain Minister was given a timely warning by the Police Chief on his personal security which the Minister did not take very seriously.

"Providing security is one aspect but on the other hand the VIPs should also cooperate with the police in maintaining their security," Jayasundara said.

According to DIG Jayasundara, the Colombo Race Course and the surrounding area will be put under a tight security blanket in view of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party's 54th annual convention on Tuesday.