Prime Minister (PM) Harini Amarasuriya says Sri Lanka’s illicit narcotics trade persisted due to political protection given to traffickers.

Speaking at a National People's Power (NPP) rally in Kolonnawa, she claimed that the area became a hub for drug activity because politicians allowed it to thrive.

Amarasuriya stated that revelations about this political shielding are now coming to light.

She emphasised that her Government was elected to address long-standing issues but would act cautiously.