By Nalaka Ratnayake

The Hatton Police Division, covering Nallathanniya, Maskeliya, Polpitiya, Nortonbridge, Ginigathhena, and Norwood, have launched special operations to combat drug trafficking and the illegal use of alcohol along the Hatton Road leading to Adam’s Peak during the Sripada pilgrimage season.

Last week, 14 individuals had been arrested for carrying drugs, including hashish, ganja, ganja mixed with herbal pills, and marijuana-laced cigarettes. The suspects were apprehended while travelling with other pilgrims to the sacred site, Superintendent of Police Hatton Division P, Pradeep Weerasekera said.

Weerasekera said that police had been instructed to conduct random checks on bags at various locations along the road to the mountain peak. The special operations will continue throughout the pilgrimage season in an effort to arrest those attempting to bring illegal substances or alcohol into the area.

“We are committed to ensuring that the Sripada pilgrimage remains a sacred journey for all,” said Weerasekera. “This is not a picnic, and visitors must behave respectfully when visiting this holy shrine.”

He said that bringing alcohol or drugs to Sripada was inappropriate and would not be tolerated. All police stations in the Hatton Police Division have been placed on high alert, with officers specifically tasked to identify and apprehend individuals or groups attempting to carry alcohol or drugs during the pilgrimage season.

In addition, emergency roadblocks will be set up to check vehicles transporting pilgrims. Those caught with illegal substances will not be allowed to continue their pilgrimage and they will be detained at police stations and presented in court.

“We urge all pilgrims to visit the Sripada shrine with respect and reverence, without bringing alcohol or drugs,” Weerasekera said.