Possible structural changes while strengthening intelligence units : Army Chief Silva

Army Commander Major General Shavendra Silva has said that certain structural changes could take place in the process of strengthening Army intelligence units -- in what would be one of his future objectives as Army Chief.

"Certain changes are likely to happen. But the ultimate motive is to improve the efficiency of the intelligence in the army," the newly-appointed Army Commander told a news conference today (Aug 26).

He highlighted that it was important to strengthen intelligence in order to deploy forces to the required areas.

Maj. Gen. Silva whose recent promotion by President Maithripala Sirisena has met with rising concerns, rejected allegations levelled against him for violating human rights during the final stages of the war.

"I'm sure he (the President) would have considered the requirement of the nation," Silva said responding to journalists who queried about his promotion in the wake of the allegations against him.

The Commander also noted that these concerns which have been raised by certain organisations and countries were based merely on allegations which are yet to be proven.

He said that his four main objectives were to protect the country, the people, develop the army and ensure the well being of the army which includes retired and injured soldiers and the families of those who lost their lives in battle.

The Army Commander made these remarks during a press briefing on the Colombo Defence Seminar which is set to take place on August 29 and 30 in Colombo.

(Pics by Priyantha Wickramaarachchi)