Minister of Public Security Ananda Wijepala has revealed that over 100,000 illegal immigrants may arrive in Sri Lanka in the coming days, based on investigations conducted by the Sri Lanka Police and Army Intelligence Unit.
Speaking in Parliament today ( January 8), Minister Wijepala referred to a recent incident involving 116 Rohingya refugees who arrived by boat. He stated that the group had paid approximately 50 million in their currency for the journey and an additional 80 million to human traffickers.
A police investigation into the incident is ongoing, with the government identifying illegal immigration as a growing social issue in Sri Lanka. Minister Wijepala assured that the government would act according to international laws if the immigrants are classified as refugees.
The Minister also reported that the Department of Immigration and Emigration has provided the refugees with essential facilities, including food and water. The Rohingya refugees were rescued off the Mullaitivu coast on December 19, 2024, prompting Opposition MP Rauff Hakeem to raise concerns in Parliament.
Minister Wijepala emphasized that the government is prepared to address such incidents and ensure compliance with international legal standards.
