The possibility of imposing the death penalty for drug-related offences was discussed at a meeting of the “A Nation United” (Ratama Ekata) National Steering Council held at the Presidential Secretariat this morning (10).

The meeting was chaired by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

The discussion focused on the growing drug menace and its impact on the country’s economy, tourism industry and social values. The need for stronger laws to combat drug trafficking and related criminal activity was also highlighted, the President’s Media Division said in a statement.

The President stressed the need for practical action and an urgent change in attitudes across society to eradicate the drug menace, and called for the active involvement of religious leaders, parents and community organisations.

Proposed amendments to laws relating to drug control and bail were also reviewed. The amendments are in the final stages and are expected to be gazetted and presented to Parliament shortly, the PMD stated.

The meeting was informed that the issuance of forensic reports related to drug cases has been significantly expedited, with 6,414 reports issued in July alone.

President Dissanayake also instructed officials to improve coordination between the Government Analyst’s Department, Police and Prisons Department to expedite legal proceedings in drug-related cases.

Measures to increase the capacity of the Government Analyst’s Department were also discussed, while the Sri Lanka Navy is providing assistance in obtaining forensic reports.

The President further instructed officials to allocate funds required to install security camera systems, according to the President’s Media Division.