The Sri Lanka Police have called on the public to actively assist in curbing serious road accidents by reporting reckless bus drivers through a dedicated WhatsApp hotline – 070 4755600.

Deputy Inspector General of Police W.P.J. Senadeera, in charge of the Traffic Control and Road Safety Range, told media that the hotline has already received numerous complaints, including dashcam footage and smartphone videos. 

A majority of submissions point to bus drivers operating after consuming drugs, which Police have identified as a major cause of road accidents.

DIG Senadeera said several bus drivers found to be under the influence of drugs have been arrested, produced in court, and had their licences suspended. Action has also been taken against conductors detected using drugs. 

“We urge the public to send us clear video evidence showing bus number plates and route numbers. We will definitely initiate action,” he stressed.

The hotline is also open for reports of reckless driving, racing, stopping in the middle of the road, ignoring traffic lights, and overspeeding.

In addition to drug use, Police have received a growing number of complaints about drunk driving. 

To intensify enforcement, a large stock of breathalyzers has been distributed to police stations island‑wide. 

Inspections will target passenger bus drivers, three‑wheeler operators, and heavy vehicle drivers such as tipper truck operators, DIG Senadeera said. 

DIG Senadeera added that the combined measures, public reporting, intensified raids, and expanded alcohol testing, are aimed at reducing the daily toll of serious road accidents across Sri Lanka. (Newswire)

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A police sergeant attached to the Dambulla Highway Unit has been suspended and transferred following the circulation of a video on social media allegedly showing him soliciting a bribe, according to DIG W. P. J. Senadeera, Director of the Traffic Control and Road Safety Range.

DIG Senadeera said an investigation is already underway, with the matter having drawn the attention of the Inspector General of Police (IGP). 

“We expect to take disciplinary and legal action based on facts uncovered. If he is found to have accepted a bribe, then we will take action against him under the Bribery Act,” he stated.

He acknowledged that while a few officers tarnish the reputation of the Police Force, the majority of traffic officers perform their duties responsibly. 

He stressed that traffic officers are already provided cash rewards for apprehending wanted suspects, leaving no justification for bribery. “Amidst this, if they still take bribes, they will not be pardoned,” he warned.

Commenting on the video, DIG Senadeera noted that the officer was seen hidden in a corner, which violates explicit instructions requiring traffic officers to remain visible to the public while on duty. 

He added that asking drivers to walk to a different location from where their vehicle is stopped is against established procedure.

DIG Senadeera also reminded the public that there is no need to hand over money to traffic police officers, as payments can be made through the GovPay app. 

“Providing a bribe is also wrong, soliciting a bribe is also wrong. There is no reason to bribe a police officer,” he emphasized.

DIG Senadeera added that the investigation continues under the supervision of higher authorities, with disciplinary measures expected once findings are finalized. (Newswire)

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