Sri Lanka Energy Conservation: Leadership by Example

Energy Conservation Calls Must Include Personal Examples, Emphasizes MP Samith Vijeesundara

Following recent calls by Minister Sunil Handunnetti urging citizens to conserve energy, Colombo Municipal Council member Samith Vijeesundara stressed that these appeals only succeed when leaders demonstrate responsible behavior personally.

He explained that, amid rising fuel prices and ongoing financial challenges, such requests remain timely and necessary. However, citizens must also practice sustainability in daily life. Vijeesundara pointed out that high fuel-consuming vehicles, like the Toyota Land Cruiser V8 Sahara, raise questions about whether leaders reinforce energy-saving messages through their own actions.

He added that during national energy crises, leaders must guide policies and act as examples. Officials in high positions build public trust when they show the same discipline and responsibility they expect from citizens. Aligning words with actions strengthens confidence and enhances the credibility of national messages.

As Sri Lanka continues to promote energy efficiency and sustainability, Vijeesundara urged all sectors, particularly public leaders, to reflect these values in their statements and daily practices.

Mullaitivu Theft: Five Arrested

Mullaitivu police arrested five suspects, including a woman, for a high-value theft in Mandhuvil last October. Notably, the suspects broke into a private residence and stole jewelry and cash worth approximately LKR 5.6 million.

Meanwhile, the investigation began after authorities traced a stolen mobile phone linked to the crime. Subsequently, with approval from the Mullaitivu magistrate, police first arrested a female suspect. During questioning, she provided crucial information, which led officers to arrest four more individuals.

Additionally, police recovered several stolen items, including a vehicle purchased with the stolen money, two engines, and other high-value possessions. Furthermore, authorities confirmed that all recovered items matched the inventory of goods reported stolen from the Mandhuvil residence.

This operation demonstrates Mullaitivu police’s dedication to combating organized theft. Therefore, officers urged citizens to remain vigilant, report suspicious activity, and secure high-value items in their homes.

Moreover, the case highlights the effectiveness of modern investigative techniques, such as mobile tracking and community cooperation, in solving serious crimes in Sri Lanka. As a result, the community can trust that police are actively protecting residents and their property.

Traffic Police Officer Arrested for Bribery

Officers from the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption arrested a traffic police officer in Akkaraipattu for accepting a Rs. 4,000 bribe. Authorities confirmed that the officer requested the payment to influence a road accident investigation.Investigators carried out the arrest during a targeted operation today.According to officials, the suspect attempted to provide favorable support during a traffic accident inquiry in exchange for money. However, anti-corruption officers intervened quickly after receiving information about the illegal request.

As a result, investigators gathered evidence and proceeded with the arrest.The Bribery Commission stated that the arrest forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen transparency and accountability within public services. Meanwhile, officers launched further legal steps against the suspect under anti-corruption laws.

Officials emphasized that strict enforcement helps maintain public trust in law enforcement institutions.

Mini Zoo Found in Suitcase at Airport

Customs officers at Bandaranaike International Airport stopped a 56-year-old passenger who arrived from Bangkok on flight TG-307 after they noticed suspicious behavior. Officers immediately inspected his luggage during routine monitoring. The passenger traveled from the Digana area in Kandy, according to customs officials.

During the inspection, officers found 38 live foreign animals hidden inside plastic cages between clothes. The discovery shocked authorities because the suitcase contained animals of several rare species.

Recovered animals included guinea pigs, rare squirrels, sugar gliders, foreign pigeons, and hedgehogs. Officials described the luggage as a mini zoo hidden inside a suitcase. Customs officers confirmed that the passenger transported the animals without import permits or quarantine clearance. Therefore, authorities immediately seized the animals to prevent illegal wildlife entry into Sri Lanka. Officials estimated the total value of the animals at Rs. 998,000.