In a major crackdown on drunk driving during the festive season, police have taken legal action against over 800 individuals within a 48-hour period ending at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, according to Police Spokesman SSP Buddika Manatunga.
The arrests come as part of intensified operations aimed at ensuring road safety during the Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebrations. SSP Manatunga stated that the police will continue these special operations in the coming days, with the goal of deterring reckless driving and minimizing accidents.
In addition to targeting drunk drivers, law enforcement has launched a broader road safety campaign anticipating a spike in traffic as holidaymakers return to Colombo. “We have observed a concerning trend over the past few days,” Manatunga said. “On April 13 and 14, there were at least five fatal accidents each day, with an average of ten people sustaining serious injuries daily.”
Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and follow road safety guidelines, especially during the post-holiday travel rush. Police have also increased checkpoints and patrols on key highways and entry routes into major cities.
The public is reminded that strict action will be taken against traffic law violators, as the police continue efforts to reduce fatalities and injuries on the roads during this high-risk period.
