All cut-outs out before Jan 23 midnight

Sarath MALALASEKERA

Inspector General of Police Mahinda Balasuriya told the media yesterday that he had given strict instructions to all Police stations to remove all cut-outs, posters and banners on or before mid-night on January 23.

Police will take stern action against people who do not comply with police orders by not removing the cut-outs, posters and banners irrespective of political parties. Those who violate Police orders will be taken into custody and produced before Court, IGP Mahinda Balasuriya said.

Only one Election branch office of any political party could be held in each District. This office could be held 500 meters away from the polling booths in the area.

IGP Balasuriya advised the people to keep their National Identity Cards in a safe place at home. The NIC should not be given to any person including any Police Officer coming to collect it.

"We have made arrangements to maintain law and order during the election period. Any persons attempting to disobey the law will be taken into custody and prosecuted in Courts," the IGP added.

The IGP also appealed to the public to be vigilant and inform any such violations of the law by any person or persons to the police on 119.