Hatton Police tighten security to protect Sripada pilgrims

The Hatton Police have launched a massive search operation to crack down illegal drug users, dealers and drug traffickers who visit the sacred mountain of Sripada. The search operation is carried out in par with the Government’s ‘Yukthiya Operation’.

According to Hatton Police heavy influx of pilgrims are in Hatton at present and steps have been taken to carry out search operations under the guidance of Hatton Police Division Superintendent (SP) Nipuna Dehigama.

Speaking to the Daily News SP Dehigama said from the day the Sripada season started last December, the Police have deployed STF, Army and Police officers with the help of Police sniffer dogs to supervise baggage of pilgrims to ascertain whether they carry illegal drugs or any other intoxicants.

The SP further said Police officers in civvies have also been deployed at key places such as the Hatton Railway station and the main Hatton bus stand where pilgrims gather in their thousands.

He also said the arrival of Sripada pilgrims are increasing day-by-day and roadblocks and checkpoints have been established along Norton Bridge, Bogawantalawa, Ratnapura, Polpitiya, Gangulatanna, Mavussakele, Indikatupana and Rathuambalama roads to crack down persons who possesses illegal drugs and intoxicants.

“We carry out this programme continuously for the benefit of pilgrims and also to strengthen the security in the area during this Sripada season,” he said.

SP Dehigama also made a fervent request from all persons visiting Sripada to refrain from carrying illegal items since steps have already been taken to take stern action against offenders.

Meanwhile, Sri Pada Viharadaipathi Ven. Bengamuwe Dammadinna Nayaka Threra thanked the Hatton Police and highlighted the importance of strengthening the security and search operations in the area during this period to nab offenders.

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