72-Hour Detention Rule Could Be Cut to 48 Hours, President Reveals

COLOMBO (News 1st); The proposed 72-hour detention period under the Prevention of Organized Crimes Bill could be reduced to 48 hours, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake revealed, signaling a willingness to amend controversial sections of the legislation following concerns raised by rights groups.

Speaking at the programme marking the first anniversary of the national drive against drugs and crime, the President said the Government was ready to engage in discussions with organizations that have expressed concerns over the proposed law.

The President stated that he was open to revising the provision allowing authorities to detain suspects for up to 72 hours, indicating that the period could be reduced to 48 hours as part of efforts to address concerns while maintaining the effectiveness of measures aimed at combating organized crime.

He also said the Government was prepared to review and amend sections of the bill dealing with signs and symbols used to identify organized criminal gangs. These provisions include references to tattoos and other markings that have drawn criticism from rights advocates and civil society groups.

Despite the proposed amendments, the President stressed that the country could not ignore the growing threat posed by narcotics and organized criminal networks. He described the drug menace as the most common threat facing the people of Sri Lanka today and called for a united national effort to free communities from its grip.