The Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, Air Vice Marshal (Retired) Sampath Thuyacontha, has issued an order for the immediate arrest of all security forces deserters.
Responding to a journalist’s inquiry regarding reports of army personnel with weapons training being involved in a significant number of recent crimes, the Defence Secretary acknowledged the Ministry’s serious concern over the issue.
He explained:
“We have been closely monitoring recent incidents, and many military personnel have already been arrested. This is a growing social problem. Our investigations confirm that individuals who have illegally deserted the military before completing their full service period are highly likely to become involved in criminal activities.”
He emphasized that deserters who leave after just one or two years of weapons training pose a particular risk.
“A few days ago, we issued an order to arrest such individuals. The military police have been given the necessary authority and resources to take action. We are fully committed to this decision,” he stated.
The Defence Secretary highlighted that a significant number of military personnel have deserted in this manner, making it a serious social concern. He also assured that there is no political protection for underworld activities and that legal actions are being swiftly taken.
Additionally, he revealed that a comprehensive audit of firearms has been conducted, with a significant number now secured under the Ministry of Defence’s control.
During a special press conference at the Government Information Department on February 22, the Defence Secretary noted a concerning trend of armed forces personnel deserting the Tri-Forces and subsequently engaging in criminal activities or joining underworld gangs.
He reiterated that both the military and the police have the capability to track down and arrest deserters with weapons training in a short period.
When asked whether active-duty military personnel are also involved in criminal activities, the Defence Secretary admitted that some soldiers have been found to have ties to criminal groups due to economic hardships and drug addiction.
In response, he assured that steps will be taken to identify and apprehend such personnel in the future.
