Sri Lanka Police warn of strict legal action against dengue breeding sites

Sri Lanka Police have urged the public to take immediate steps to prevent the spread of dengue, warning that strict legal action will be taken against individuals who maintain premises that contribute to mosquito breeding.Issuing a statement, the Police stated that the country is facing a risk of a rapid increase in dengue cases and that the Ministry of Health, Public Health Inspectors (PHIs), and the Sri Lanka Police are jointly conducting special island-wide dengue control programmes to address the situation.According to the Police, Inspector General of Police (IGP) has instructed Officers-in-Charge (OICs) of all police stations to take dedicated measures to support dengue prevention efforts. The initiatives include educating the public through Public Security Committees established across 48 police divisions, conducting community-based clean-up campaigns (Shramadana), raising awareness, and enforcing relevant laws, said police.Police warned that legal action will be taken against individuals who allow mosquito breeding sites to exist on their properties or fail to maintain hygienic surroundings. Such offenders may be prosecuted before courts under Section 262 of the Penal Code.The Police further stated that, under the Prevention of Mosquito Breeding Act, No. 11 of 2007, health authorities have the authority to issue “Red Notices” against premises where mosquito breeding grounds are identified or where proper cleanliness standards are not maintained.Failure to comply with instructions issued through a Red Notice within the given period is an offence under Section 6 of the Act and carries a maximum fine of Rs. 25,000, the Police said.The statement also revealed that 4,672 cases have already been filed in courts against individuals for maintaining environments conducive to mosquito breeding during the six-month period from January to June 2026.Emphasising the serious consequences of dengue, the Sri Lanka Police highlighted that the loss of even a single young life creates an irreversible impact on families and society as a whole.The Police appealed to parents, guardians, and all members of the public to remain vigilant and take necessary preventive measures to eliminate mosquito breeding sites and help prevent further loss of life due to dengue.