If the Prevention of Terrorism Act is Repealed, What About Criminals?; Pradeepa Mahanamahewa Warns

02-Sep-2025

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Senior Attorney-at-Law Pradeepa Mahanama Heva has warned that if the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) is repealed, there is a risk that hardened criminals currently detained under its provisions may be released.

She made this statement while commenting on remarks by the head of the committee tasked with drafting a new Counter-Terrorism Bill, who recently confirmed that the draft will be prepared within this month.

She further noted that while the government has taken steps to repeal the PTA and introduce a new counter-terrorism law, the repeal of the PTA could lead to the release of those held under it. Therefore, a law addressing organised crime should also be introduced simultaneously.

Highlighting the importance of such a law, she stated that it is crucial in curbing organised crime and narcotics trafficking. Thus, while repealing the PTA, the government must also enforce legislation that effectively combats organised crime and the drug trade.

It is noteworthy that Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath recently told Parliament that the government intends to gazette the repeal of the PTA in early September, in line with the pledge made in its election manifesto.