UNDERWORLD HIDES BEHIND DISASTER RELIEF

Two killed in shootings last week This year, 110 shootings have been reported, resulting in 58 deaths and nearly 60 injuries

- By DARSHANA SANJEEWA BALASURIYA

Sri Lanka is witnessing a surge in violent incidents, including shootings, as some individuals appear to be taking advantage of the chaos following Cyclone Ditwah, which caused widespread flooding, landslides, and over 600 deaths across the country.

It was observed that some underworld elements are taking advantage of the ongoing disaster relief and recovery efforts, exploiting the fact that law enforcement authorities are focused on rebuilding operations

Cyclone Ditwah struck in late November, prompting a massive relief operation involving more than 28,000 military and police personnel deployed across all provinces to assist affected communities.

Between December 1 and 6, police recorded at least three shooting incidents in different parts of the country, resulting in two deaths and one injury.