Government intelligence agencies have reportedly launched investigations into nearly 200 police officers following information suggesting they have been receiving payments from organised crime groups and drug traffickers.

It is also reported that intelligence agencies have identified nearly 2,000 individuals with active links to organized criminal networks operating in Sri Lanka.Meanwhile, Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs Ananda Wijepala has told a weekend newspaper that nearly 1,000 police officers have been dismissed from the Police in recent years over alleged links with organised crime figures, drug traffickers and smugglers.The Minister also revealed that information relating to six police officers suspected of maintaining connections with organised crime figures and drug traffickers was referred to the Police Special Investigation Division last week for further investigation.He further stated that intelligence agencies have been tasked with identifying police officers who are collaborating with organised crime groups and various criminal syndicates.

The Minister also disclosed that, based on intelligence reports, all officers attached to certain police stations, including Kalpitiya Police Station, were transferred in recent days.