Cabinet Spokesman Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said law enforcement agencies are taking measures within the framework of the law to curb organised crime and underworld activity in the country.
Responding to questions about the recent grenade attack in Dehiwala that claimed the lives of two children, Dr. Jayatissa said two suspects linked to the incident had already been arrested, while efforts were underway to apprehend the main suspect.
He said 37 shooting incidents resulting in 18 deaths had been recorded up to September 14 this year.
Meanwhile, security forces have recovered 867 illegal firearms between January 1 and September 14, including 14 T-56 assault rifles, 31 pistols, 25 revolvers and 797 other firearms.
This follows the recovery of 2,404 illegal firearms during the preceding 12 months in 2025, he said.
Dr. Jayatissa acknowledged that dismantling underworld networks could not be achieved overnight due to their extensive operations, international connections and the involvement of individuals directing criminal activities from overseas or from within prisons.
However, he said coordinated efforts by the Police, Prisons Department, Armed Forces and intelligence agencies had significantly curbed gang-related violence compared with previous periods.
Responding to calls for the reinstatement of the death penalty for serious violent crimes, the Cabinet Spokesman said the proposal had been raised by several parties during discussions.
However, he stressed that the Government had not yet reached a final decision on reinstating the death penalty.
