ECONOMYNEXT – Hambantota International Port, run by China’s CM Ports group as a joint venture with Sri Lanka Ports Authority said it had build a station for Sri Lanka Police within the port.
The police station could house 40 personnel had its own quarters for the officer in charge, lock-ups in a 2050 square metres of buildings, replacing a small police post in the port.
“By Sri Lankan law it is a must for all ports to have a police presence within the harbour, which is why we had a minor post already in place” Ravi Jayawickreme, chief executive of Hambantota International Port Services (HIPS) said.
“But we saw the need for an upgrade so officers can do their job with ease. Now we have a fully fledged harbor police station in place, which is mutually beneficial for the port and the police force.”
HIPS is a joint venture with Sri Lanka ports authority and CM Ports controlled, Hambantota International Ports Group (HIPG) which runs commercial services.
“As much as the maritime security given by the Sri Lanka Navy is important, it is also necessary for the Sri Lanka Police to have a larger presence within the harbour premises,” Chief Executive of HIPG, Ray Ren said.
“This will definitely help civil security.”
The police station started with a soft-opening by Senior Deputy Inspector General of Police for the Southern Province Rohan J Silva, the firm said.
A full contingent of police to man the stations are expected shortly. (Colombo/Dec06/2020)