480 Drug-Impaired Drivers Arrested in 22 Days

COLOMBO (News 1st) - Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala says that 480 drivers who were under the influence of drugs have been arrested during the past 22 days as part of a nationwide enforcement drive.

The Minister revealed that 135 road accidents were reported during this period, resulting in the deaths of 15 drivers and 50 pedestrians.

He emphasized that anyone engaged in driving while using drugs will be brought before the law, stating that it is the government’s responsibility to protect the lives of citizens. 

Police have been instructed to treat everyone equally under the law.

The Minister added that facilities have now been provided to continuously check drivers and carry out regular inspections. 

He also urged bus owners to closely monitor their employees, noting that staff of the Sri Lanka Transport Board will also be subjected to routine checks.

Meanwhile, under the national drug prevention program, a pilot project to test saliva samples is currently underway, in addition to the existing blood and urine testing methods. 

Minister Wijepala further said that if necessary, laws will be amended, and officers will be provided with modern technical equipment.