Presidential Task Force to build ‘A Secure Country, Disciplined, Virtuous and Lawful Society' appointed

 A Presidential Task Force to build ‘A Secure Country, Disciplined, Virtuous and Lawful Society' has been appointed by the President Gotabaya Rajapaksa vesting powers to take necessary immediate steps to curb the "illegal activities of social groups which are violating the law which is emerging as harmful to the free and peaceful existence of society at present in some places of the country".

The 13 member Task Force consists of senior serving military officers and retired personnel. Secretary to the Ministry of Defence Major General (Retired) Kamal Gunaratne is appointed as the Chairman of the Task Force.

A gazette notification issued by the Secretary to the President on behalf of the President last night stipulates the responsibilities of the Task Force. The Task Force is given powers to take necessary measures for prevention from drug menace, prevent entry of drugs from abroad through ports and airports and to fully eradicate drug trafficking in the country and to prevent other social illnesses caused by drug abuse.

It also vested powers to take legal action against persons responsible for the illegal and antisocial activities conducted in Sri Lanka while locating in other countries. The Task Force is also mandated to  investigate and prevent any illegal and antisocial activities in and around prisons.