Heavy security for Independence, Deyata Kirula

Rafik Jalaldeen

Nearly 10,000 police personnel had been deployed in addition to the Armed Forces to strengthen security in the Colombo city and suburbs for the Independence Day celebrations and the Deyata Kirula functions.

Addressing the media yesterday at the MCNS, Senior DIG Colombo Nimal Mediwaka said to ensure a smooth 61st National Independence Day celebration at the Galle Face Green, security had been put on high alert to avert any possible LTTE attack to disrupt the ceremony. Unlike in the past, DIG Mediwaka said since the LTTE is facing a humiliating defeat in the North and the Vanni, it may attempt to create mayhem and destruction in the South.

“While all preparations for the Independence day celebration are taking place, maximum precautionary measures are being implemented concerning the security in Colombo and its suburbs and to avert any LTTE attempt to crate mayhem”, he added.

He reiterated that tight security and public support had helped police to arrest a number of LTTE suspects and seize a large haul of weapons, explosives and suicide jackets brought to carry out terror activities in the South.

DIG Mediwaka observed that as a result of the increased terrorist threat to national security, during 61st Independence day celebration and Deyata Kirula, special security arrangements had been made and around 10,000 police personnel have been deployed in the Western Province in addition to the Armed Forces.

“4,000 police personnel will be on high alert during the Independence day and another 6,000 police personnel will be on duty during the Deyata Kirula functions”, he added.

”Considering the security on Independence day and Deyata Kirula, police implemented well planned security arrangements one and a half months prior to the Independence day by conducting clearing operations in the Western Province and registering outsiders living in Colombo”, he pointed out.

He asserted that in addition to 4,000 police personnel, soldiers too will be deployed to provide security in the Colombo city and its suburbs on February 3 and 4. The Navy will be patrolling the seas surrounding Colombo and the Beira Lake and the Air Force will be involved in constant aerial surveillance over Colombo.

Special traffic arrangements had been made during Independence day celebrations. Roads adjoining the Galle Face Green will be closed on February 3 and 4 as a security measure and the public will be provided with alternative roads.

“People living and working in the sealed areas will be allowed to enter on February 3. On Independence Day, only residents will be allowed access to enter their homes after thorough checking”, the DIG said.

Meanwhile, train services from Maradana to Bambalapitiya have been suspended until Independence day.

“Passengers will be provided with shuttle services from Maradana to Bambalapitya to avoid any inconvenience. A shuttle bus service has already been arranged for the public”, he remarked.