High-profile murders linked to organized crime have spiked in Sri Lanka over the past few months. These incidents have significantly impacted the perception of safety in Sri Lanka. They have also raised concerns over the ability of authorities to control the increasing crime rates. Typically, these crimes are premeditated, often carried out in public or semi-public settings to send a message to rival gangs and the community at large. This report will outline the critical aspects of organized crime and the underworld in Sri Lanka, presenting the future outlook for the security landscape in the country.
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS
A significant portion of organized crime activities in Sri Lanka revolves around the drug trade. Under Operation ‘Yukthiya,’ between December 2023 and June 2024, police arrested nearly 130,000 people and recovered large consignments of illicit drugs. These operations have led to confrontations between law enforcement and criminal groups, further escalating the violence. In addition to organized crime activities, there has been an increasing trend in personal vendettas resulting in shootings. Police statistics for 2023 recorded 120 shootings, with organized crime groups responsible for most incidents. As of July, 33 people have been killed and 25 have been injured in 50 shooting incidents across the country this year.
Two people were killed and four were injured following this shooting in Athurugiriya, Colombo on July 8. The suspects’ van was found in Bulathsinhala, and an abandoned car was discovered in Kaduwela, highlighting the extensive network of these criminal groups. The shooting of five people in Beliaththa, Southern Province, including Our Power of People Party leader Saman Perera, in January has also heightened concern over politically motivated shootings. In another notable case, two army personnel were involved in a high-profile murder on February 21. The murder was related to gang rivalry and took place in Elapitiwala Junction, Mahabage in the Western Province. These incidents highlight the ongoing issue of underworld activities, bringing renewed focus to the government’s efforts to combat organized crime.
Implications
The crime wave in Sri Lanka could be fueled by socio-economic factors, political instability, and corruption. The economic recession may have led to increased organized crime, including drug trafficking and smuggling. Political instability may weaken law enforcement, and corruption within the police and government agencies is likely to hamper the fight against crime. Limited resources and poor coordination among law enforcement could further exacerbate the issue.
Despite the crime wave, business operations in Sri Lanka may remain relatively stable. However, businesses may face indirect threats from violence, which could impact investor confidence. The crime wave is expected to persist due to deep-rooted socio-economic issues, political instability, and corruption, especially as the country approaches presidential elections.
For more in-depth risk assessments and tailored advice on how the security situation may impact your business operations, please reach out to APAC Assistance. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and be prepared to navigate the complex security environment of Sri Lanka amid rising organized crimes, and other issues.
For bespoke and comprehensive risk analysis for travel and operations in Sri Lanka, please contact our Regional Director, Bhargav Reddy (Bhargav_Reddy@apacassistance.com).