Courtesy Hru News

The withdrawal of all state-provided vehicles for former President, the fifth Executive President of Sri Lanka, Mahinda Rajapaksa, and his security detail has created a serious security concern, according to his media spokesperson, Manoj Gamage.

Gamage stated that the bulletproof vehicle provided by the government to Rajapaksa was handed back to the state yesterday (3 October).

He added that all vehicles allocated for the security personnel have also been recalled, leaving the guards with no transport.

Gamage pointed out that the security personnel, who are armed, cannot travel in private vehicles.

 This situation, he claimed, places Rajapaksa’s life in a dangerous position.

He noted that large numbers of people visit Rajapaksa at his Carlton Residence in Tangalle, and he frequently receives invitations to various public events.

Considering these factors, Gamage emphasised the importance of security authorities paying strict attention to Rajapaksa’s safety.

Gamage described it as “very regrettable” that a former President who led the defeat of the world’s most brutal terrorism faces such a predicament, stressing that ensuring his security is the duty and responsibility of everyone.

He raised a question: “Whose agenda is being fulfilled by reducing Mahinda Rajapaksa’s security in this manner?”

Gamage confirmed that they plan to discuss the matter with security authorities and will formally inform the Inspector-General of Police and the Secretary to the Ministry of Public Security in writing next week.