Speaking at a special press briefing held to brief the public on the “Ratama Ekata” national operation, Wootler said authorities have been working to bring suspects wanted in connection with serious crimes back to Sri Lanka through international cooperation.He said 38 suspects had been brought back to Sri Lanka through Interpol Red Notices during 2024, 2025 and the period that has elapsed this year.

In addition, another 35 notorious criminals had been brought back to the country through the direct intervention of the Inspector General of Police, he said.Wootler also revealed that authorities have launched a special program to confiscate assets allegedly acquired through illegal activities by suspects brought back to Sri Lanka.The assets include vehicles, houses, gold and land believed to have been acquired through illicit means.According to the Police Spokesman, steps were taken in 2024 to freeze or otherwise immobilise assets worth approximately Rs. 1.49 billion as an initial step towards transferring them to the State.

In 2025, assets valued at approximately Rs. 1.549 billion were similarly subjected to preliminary legal measures for State acquisition.