The Indian High Commissioner in Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha met the Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd) at the Defence Ministry yesterday (07).

The discussions focused on strengthening the longstanding defence cooperation between India and Sri Lanka, underscoring the deep-rooted bilateral ties between the two nations.

They exchanged views on regional security and maritime cooperation aimed at enhancing defence collaboration.

The Indian High Commissioner emphasized India’s unwavering support for Sri Lanka in defence and security matters, particularly in counter-terrorism, maritime security and disaster response.

The Defence Secretary expressed appreciation for India’s continued assistance and acknowledged the significant role of defence partnerships in ensuring stability and security in the region.

The Ministry of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs says security measures have been reinforced around the Colombo Fort Krrish Building following two recent fire incidents.

Minister Ananda Wijepala confirmed that nearly 20 police officers have been deployed for the security of the area. 

A report from the Government Analyst regarding the fires is expected soon. 

Fires were reported over the past two days, at the Krrish Building, which is currently under construction. 

A fire erupted on the 24th floor yesterday and was extinguished with the help of six fire trucks. 

A fire broke out on the 35th floor the day before and spread to the 34th floor, prompting a multi-hour firefighting operation.

Senior DIG Attorney-at-Law Waruna Jayasundara, who served as the Commandant of the Police Special Task Force (STF), along with several other high-ranking police officers, have been transferred.

The transfers include Senior DIGs and DIGs while they have been approved by the National Police Commission. These transfers are scheduled to be implemented from February 12.

Meanwhile, it has been reported that several Officers-in-Charge (OICs) are also scheduled to be transferred.

Following the transfers, the respective OICs will resume their normal duties in their new postings.