News
Security arrangements all in place for Easter Sunday, say police
View(s):By Iresha Bandara and Kasun Warakapitiya
As Christians celebrate Easter Sunday today (April 5), heightened security measures have been implemented across the country to ensure public safety.
Security was tight yesterday at the St.Anthony's church in Kochchikade, Colombo--one of the churches that came under attack in 2019 - Pic by M.A. Pushpa Kumara
Police media spokesman Senior Superintendent of Police, Fredric Wootler said that the Inspector General of Police, Priyantha Weerasooriya, had instructed all police stations islandwide to follow intelligence reports and make necessary arrangements to strengthen security.
He said that over 10,000 police officers have been deployed across all 608 police stations to manage road safety and security at churches. Special security programmes, including the deployment of the Special Task Force (STF) and tri-forces, are in place at churches. Authorities are also utilising more than 400 CCTV cameras and speed detection devices, especially in Colombo and other areas in the Western Province, to closely monitor traffic and public movement.
In addition, Police Officers-in-Charge (OICs) are working directly with church officials to implement security plans tailored to the specific needs of each parish.
Police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities, including scams, robberies, or security threats, through dedicated hotlines. Members of the public are advised to contact 119 (Police Emergency), 118 (Ministry of Defence Help Desk), or 1927 to report concerns immediately.
Authorities emphasised that these measures are aimed at ensuring a peaceful and safe environment for all those attending Easter celebrations across the country.
SSP Wootler said that the inspector General of police issued a directive to all police stations and gave instructions to carry out islandwide security programmes for the holy week and Easter Sunday observances. Accordingly all headquarter inspectors and officers in charge had to discuss with area churches and parish persists and draw out security plans.
SSP Wooteler requested the general public to inform the nearest police station, police officer in the vicinity or priest at the church or perish if they encounter any suspicious person, vehicle, group of people as well as suspicious items during mass.
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