The Sri Lanka Government has defended the continued deployment of Special Task Force (STF) security for former Minister of Public Security Tiran Alles, citing intelligence reports that warn of threats to his life.
The issue came under scrutiny during a cabinet press briefing on February 11, when a journalist asked Cabinet Spokesman Minister Nalinda Jayatissa why Alles still receives STF protection while security for other former officials, including ex-President Mahinda Rajapaksa, has been reduced.
Minister Jayatissa responded that security allocations are based on intelligence assessments.
Today the BBC reported that a senior STF official confirmed that 19 officers were initially assigned to protect Alles. Seven officers were designated as close protection personnel, while 12 others were stationed at his residence and other locations.
Alles first received STF protection during his tenure as Minister of Public Security due to reported threats from underworld groups.
Speaking to BBC Sinhala, Alles said the number of STF officers assigned to him has been reduced since the new government took office.
“I now have only six STF personnel for my protection. The intelligence reports not only warned of threats to me but also highlighted risks to my family members,” he said.
Minister of Public Security Ananda Wijepala said security allocations are reviewed every six months to determine necessity.
“We conduct periodic evaluations and make adjustments. If security is no longer needed, it will be removed,” he said, adding that a new assessment will be conducted regarding Alles’ security. (NewsWire)