The Hon. Ananda Wijepala - State Minister (Public Security) [continued]

¶ 01 I will mention just two points without naming the full list. There are members connected with the underworld figure “Rangama Vidura”, including relations and associates. The sister of “Kosgoda Sujee” is a local authority member of the SJB, and via such links, people are involved in these killings. Every life is innocent, and we are working so that no life is lost. Though these are separate incidents occurring in different places, there are common factors. We are conducting deep investigations. You, too, can remove such persons from your political parties and send the message not to engage in killings. I also tell the public to understand, honestly, the efforts we are taking to suppress the underworld and narcotics menace.

¶ 02 Hon. Leader of the Opposition, you ask questions; I answer on the basis of investigations, which takes time. That is what I did, Hon. Deputy Speaker.

¶ 03 On your second question about recruiting 10,000 when there are 35,116 vacancies: recruitment is ongoing. Approval has been given to recruit 10,000. So far 1,500 have been selected and will be sent to Police Training Schools within two weeks. About 200 Sub-Inspectors have been selected and are undergoing medicals. 1,300 Police Constables have been selected, and interviews are ongoing. A Gazette for the next round, including for Women Police and STF, will be issued on the 28th of this week or in the first week of March.

¶ 04 Filling the vacancies cannot be done in a very short time. There are multiple steps: initial interview, exam, second interview, background checks, narcotics screening, medicals, then six months of training. Even efficiently done, it takes at least about 10 months. We are using technology, improving efficiency, and providing motivation. This is being managed continuously, though some delay is inherent.

¶ 05 On Public Security Committees (PSCs): a circular has clearly been issued by the IGP. These are not political committees. I stated earlier that the Secretary is the area Grama Niladhari, the convener is the Community Police officer, and the Chair is a recognized person chosen from among the committee members. In previous Governments, some former Community Police Committee members have again become PSC members and continued earlier practices, like issuing character certificates. Our circular clarifies this. I have addressed every province and district on the intended role of PSCs. They are to assist in drug prevention, drug suppression and crime control; they are not law enforcement bodies.

¶ 06 I inquired from the Senior DIG of CID and was told no one has been summoned by the CID in this regard. I will still verify further, Hon. Leader of the Opposition. The Police need not be used for such things. If someone formerly in a Community Police Committee now sits in a PSC and continues an old habit of issuing letters, that should be disregarded; we clarified this to the House.

¶ 07 We have a clear vision, goals and a plan. We are depoliticizing and structurally strengthening the Police to be more proactive. We are working hard to control crime, Hon. Deputy Speaker.