Nearly 1,700 military deserters involved in organized crime have been arrested in the past two months, according to Minister of Public Security Ananda Wijepala.

Over 1,000 illegal firearms were also seized during this period.

In response to rising concerns, the Ministry of Defence ordered the immediate arrest of armed forces deserters. 

Defence Secretary Sampath Thuyacontha noted that many suspects in recent crimes had prior military training.

The Minister also confirmed ongoing efforts to root out police and military personnel linked to the underworld and narcotics. 

Several officers have already been suspended, and 500 newly trained STF personnel will be deployed to support anti-crime operations.