Magistrate says Jaffna crime rate highest in Vadamaradchi

[TamilNet, Saturday, 09 August 2003, 20:12 GMT]
Vadamaradchi has the highest crime rate in Jaffna said Pt. Pedro magistrate Mr. K. Ariyanayagam, addressing the annual sports meet of the nursery at the Thumpalai East Community Centre Saturday. “Ninety eight percent of the Sri Lankan Police Force in Jaffna is Sinhala. We cannot expect them to control crime zealously and wholeheartedly. Hence it is our responsibility to safeguard our society and culture”, the magistrate said.

He observed that there were once many learned persons in Vadamaradchi and that the people of the region led prosperous lives in the past. “Today all this has been marred by crime”, Mr. Ariyanayagam said.

The distilling and sale of illicit liquor, particularly in the Thunnalai area, robbery and child abuse are on the rise in Vadamardchi he said. The magistrate also drew attention to the anti-social activities of inebriated youth at the 1st Mile Post near Pt. Pedro town.

“Crime can be brought under control if parents guide their children correctly. Parents should take urgent action in this regard”, he said.