President Anura Kumara Dissanayake issued a stern warning that Sri Lanka cannot allow the existence of a parallel ‘black state’ within the official state, pledging decisive action to eradicate criminal networks infiltrating state institutions

The President revealed shocking findings:

T-56 assault rifles from military camps have ended up in the hands of criminals, with 73 rifles reported missing and 35 already recovered.

A senior Army Colonel has been arrested for supplying ammunition, with payments traced to his bank accounts.

A police officer sold his service weapon and fled, while multiple investigations have exposed links between certain police officers and organized crime.

He further exposed systemic corruption:

Motor Traffic Department issuing number plates without vehicles.

A recent arrest in Gampaha uncovered a police officer possessing two illegal number plates.

Immigration officials allegedly facilitated passports for underworld leaders, including one case where a book seller from Pettah provided fingerprints for a criminal’s passport application.

“A black state has been created to serve criminal interests. But let me assure you—there will not be two states in this country. Only the democratic state powered by the people will remain. The black state will be destroyed,” the President declared.

He warned that this criminal influence has now penetrated politics, with reports of underworld figures becoming party organizers and even MPs, and attempts to create separate voter lists for elections.

“We are at a decisive hour to end this. Many tell me, ‘If you don’t do this, no one will.’ Some mothers say, ‘Son, if you do only this, it’s enough.’ That’s why we are acting now,” he said.

The President confirmed that a record number of police officers have been interdicted, calling this the toughest crackdown in history. He urged all officials involved in illegal activities to withdraw immediately, warning:

“Protect the honor of your uniform and step forward. If not, step away—or we will remove you.”

“To all state officials aiding these crimes: stop now. Nothing is hidden anymore. Everyone knows. Leave before it’s too late.”