Sri Lanka’s Drug Battle Needs Education, Not Just Enforcement – MP

COLOMBO (News 1st); National People's Power (NPP) Member of Parliament Manoj Rajapaksha emphasized that Sri Lanka’s drug crisis cannot be eradicated through enforcement raids alone, urging a nationwide awakening to the root causes and consequences of drug abuse.

He made these remarks while attending a felicitation ceremony held at the historic Manikkadawara Purana Viharaya, honoring Deputy Inspector General of Police for the Ratnapura Division, Renuka Jayasundara.

Addressing the gathering, MP Rajapaksha stated,

“This is a national disaster. We must treat the fight against drugs as a national mission. It’s not just about arrests—it’s about educating every citizen on the dangers of addiction. Only then can we rebuild Sri Lanka into a stronger, more developed island nation.”

The event was attended by state officials, local residents, and community leaders. Among those honored were Shishan Kalpitha Siriwardhana, Postmaster of Sri Lanka’s top-performing sub-post office, and Police Sergeant Sarath Bandara, who served in the Manikkadawara area.

DIG Renuka Jayasundara, speaking at the event, reflected on her brief but impactful tenure in the Ratnapura Division:

“It’s been just a few months since I took up this role, and the responsibilities are immense. I always stand for the innocent and the poor. Those who come to me for help know how I resolve their issues. I believe I have the strength to serve people across every district and village in this country.”