The government has officially withdrawn tri-forces personnel assigned to the security of former presidents, effective today (23).

During a parliamentary session last week, Minister of Public Security Ananda Wijepala announced the decision, explaining that, moving forward, only police officers would provide security for former presidents.

Additionally, the number of police officers assigned for this purpose has been reduced. However, the government assured that an adequate number of officers would remain to ensure their safety.

It was further revealed that security arrangements for former presidents will be reviewed every six months, with additional measures implemented if necessary.

The Ministry of Defense emphasised that the safety of former presidents would not be compromised, despite the withdrawal of tri-forces personnel.

The decision to scale down security was attributed to the significant costs involved in maintaining protection for former presidents.