STF camps in every district to combat vice

Sandasen MARASINGHE

Police Special Task Force camps which were confined to the Northern and Eastern Provinces during LTTE terrorism, are to be established in each administrative district under the direction of the Defence Ministry to eliminate all anti-social activities that have posed a threat to the public.

Police Special Task Force Commandant Deputy Inspector General RWMC Ranawana told the media at the STF headquarters yesterday that STF personnel are undergoing special training that will enable them to cope with civil activities in a more professional manner.

DIG Ranawana said that the STF being a part of the Police has been tasked with the elemination of various crimes in society. The STF has been active in cambatting crime, such as, underworld activities, drug trafficking, cannabis cultivation and trade, illegal gem mining, sand mining, illegal felling of trees etc in the post terrorism period.

He added that the STF cooperates with many institutions such as the Gem and Jewelery Authority, Geological Survey and Mines Bureau, Forest Department and Wildlife Department to end crime. He said that the STF personnel deployed in camps in the administrative districts would remain in the camps for a short period in a particular camp.

“They will also not be allowed to work in the camp that is located in the district where the particular officer is residing,” he said. The STF Commandant said that the course includes lessons of skill development, leadership training, public relations, positive thinking etc.

“The course will also impart knowledge of the relevant acts and laws to the STF personnel to enable them to render a better service,” the STF Commandant said.