Secretary of the Defence Ministry, Retired Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha, has issued directives to arrest all armed forces deserters.

This is following revelations of their involvement in organised crime and underworld activities.

The decision comes amid growing concerns over deserting military personnel engaging in contract killings and other criminal operations across the country. Reports indicate that several recent crimes have been linked to former military personnel who have absconded from service.

In a related move, the Sri Lanka Army has instructed all personnel below the rank of Major to surrender their passports to their respective regiments.