Defence Secretary attends the inauguration of the “Wana Surakuma Joint Operations Unit”

The "Wana Surakuma Joint Operations Unit", established with the aim of protecting Sri Lanka's valuable natural forest resources and combating forest crimes, was inaugurated today (3 October) at the Ministry of Environment premises. Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyakontha (Retd) also attended the event held this morning.

Minister of Environment Hon. (Dr.) Dammika Patabendi, graced as the chief guest, while Deputy Minister of Environment Hon. Anton Jayakody, was also present.

This new operational unit operates under the Ministry of Environment and represents multiple institutions to build a strong security network. This unit consists of representatives from the Department of Wildlife Conservation, the Department of Forest Conservation, the Police Special Task Force, and the tri-services. Through this joint approach, it will be possible to more effectively coordinate the tasks from collecting information on forest crimes to conducting immediate operations, and to act promptly against threats to the country's forest resources.

A key element of this joint operations unit is collecting information on forest crimes through public participation. For this purpose, this unit introduced a 24 hour hotline telephone number of 1995. The public will be provided with the opportunity to provide this unit with reliable information about damage to forest systems and associated wildlife. By integrating, classifying and analyzing the data and information thus received, the necessary strategies will be developed to identify areas where forest crimes are prevalent and take prompt action against them.

Moreover, this unit is also working to use modern technology to bring forest criminals to justice. The forest areas will be monitored using cutting edge tools such as drones, satellite imagery and GPS. It is also expected to systematically deploy human resources, equipment and technology to enhance the ability to respond to emergencies, especially fires, illegal logging and reserve-related crimes.

The establishment of the "Wana Surakuma Joint Operations Unit" marks a new milestone in the conservation of wildlife and forest resources in Sri Lanka. This historic occasion was attended by many high-ranking and senior officials, including the Secretary to the Ministry of Environment, representing the Department of Wildlife Conservation, the Department of Forest Conservation, the Police Special Task Force and the Tri-Forces, who contribute to this unit.