🚨 Cabinet Approves New Prevention of Organised Crime Bill

The Cabinet of Ministers has approved the Gazette publication and parliamentary presentation of the proposed Prevention of Organised Crime Bill to establish a dedicated legal framework targeting criminal activity in line with international standards. • Policy & Governance: - Transitions suspects of organized crime away from detentions under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA). - Specifically addresses non-terrorism offences such as drug trafficking and criminal networks. • Key Safeguards & Application: - Incorporates legislative safeguards to prevent potential misuse of new legal powers. - Envisages no retrospective application for offences committed prior to the law coming into force. • International Cooperation: - Establishes stronger mechanisms to pursue and repatriate suspects fleeing overseas. - Facilitates new bilateral agreements with foreign jurisdictions to streamline extradition processes. • Administration: - Received clearance from the Attorney General. - Jointly submitted by Justice and National Integration Minister Harshana Nanayakkara and Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala.