Special security programme from Friday – Police spokesman

Police would make special security arrangements in the Western Province from 31 December in view of the festivities connected with the New Year. Police spokesman SSP Nihal Thalduwa said, noting that additional parking slots had been demarcated at the Galle Face Green.

“Traffic police officers will be on duty throughout the night. We will also increase mobile units and policemen in civvies. Usually during the festive season, there are criminal elements who try to pray on revellers,” he said.

SSP Thalduwa added that police teams with sniffer dogs too would be deployed to detect those who used and sold drugs. There will also be random checks on vehicles, he said.

“We urge people not to drive after consuming alcohol and act in a disorderly manner. We will arrest such people and if you are arrested you will have to spend your new year inside a cell. So please act responsibly,” he said.

The police would arrest those who violate health regulations, he said. “With the help of health officials we will take action against those who organise parties in violation of health guidelines.”