Arrest without warrant for environmental offences

14-May-2026

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Director of the Central Environmental Authority, Kapila Rajapaksa, has stated that under new amendments introduced to Sri Lanka’s National Environmental Act, four major issues have now been classified as offences for which arrests can be made without a warrant.

These include air pollution, water pollution, soil pollution, and harm caused to the public through noise or vibration.

He made these remarks during a special press conference held in Colombo.

He explained that previously, officials of the Central Environmental Authority had to visit the relevant location, collect samples and conduct investigations before taking legal action. However, under the new law, police officers acting as peace officers will be able to intervene and arrest those violating environmental regulations on the spot, without a court warrant.

He added that discussions have already been held with the Police Department in this regard, and expressed hope that such legal measures will enable stricter monitoring of locations causing environmental damage.