The operation to curb the deadly drug trade cannot be carried out by the tri-services and the police alone. Public cooperation is essential in this effort. Only through collective action can we protect future generations, Hon. Governor of Northern Province N. Vethanayahan emphasized.
The Kilinochchi District discussion to establish a District Action Committee under the National Action Plan “A Nation United” aimed at completely eradicating toxic drugs was held this morning – on Wednesday 14 January 2026.
The meeting took place at the Kilinochchi District Skill Development Hall under the chairmanship of District Secretary S. Muralitharan. The event was graced by the Hon. Minister of Public Safety and Parliamentary Affairs, Ananda Wijepala, and the Hon. Minister of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Marine Resources R. Chandrasekhar, as Chief Guests.
Addressing the gathering, Co-Chairman of the Kilinochchi District Coordination Committee and Hon. Governor N. Vethanayahan stated that, the country’s youth have been severely affected by the use of deadly drugs, leaving many families devastated and the future of young people uncertain.
He noted that, in response to this critical situation, decisive measures are being taken under the leadership of His Excellency the President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to curb the drug menace. As part of these efforts, regional- and district-level committees have been established, and monitoring mechanisms are being further strengthened.
The Governor further emphasized that a comprehensive rehabilitation programme for drug addicts is equally essential. He pointed out that, due to the absence of a dedicated rehabilitation centre in the Northern Province, affected individuals are currently referred to the Kandakadu Rehabilitation Centre, where space is limited.
He emphasized that urgent steps should be taken to establish a separate rehabilitation centre within the province to effectively address this need.
Continuing his address, Minister of Public Safety and Parliamentary Affairs Ananda Wijepala stated that children across the country are falling victim to deadly drugs, regardless of race or religion, and stressed that this situation cannot be allowed to continue.
He explained that the government is addressing the issue through a two-pronged approach. Firstly, measures to prevent drugs from entering the country have been significantly strengthened. Secondly, steps are being taken to reduce the domestic demand for drugs.
As part of this strategy, regional- and district-level committees are being established to carry out extensive awareness programmes aimed at curbing drug use. He expressed confidence that the drug menace can be effectively controlled by cutting off supply and reducing demand simultaneously.
Urging parents not to remain complacent simply because their own children are not involved in drug use, the Minister called on them to actively participate in the national initiative to protect all children. Echoing the Governor’s remarks, he emphasized that the tri-services and the police alone cannot tackle the drug menace and that collective public involvement is essential.
He further noted that members of the public can provide information related to drug activities in complete confidentiality. Stressing the government’s firm commitment to addressing the issue, he revealed that approximately 450 police officers implicated in drug trafficking have already been dismissed. Additionally, steps are being taken to establish rehabilitation centres in every district.
This was followed by an open discussion involving participants.
The event was attended by the Hon. Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic Resources and Marine Resources, R. Chandrasekhar; the Senior Deputy Inspector General of Police of the Northern Province; the Deputy Inspector General of Police; police officers and security personnel; the Deputy Chief Secretary (Administration) of the Northern Province; the Secretary to the Ministry of Local Government; religious leaders; community representatives; and heads of government departments.
