The Police have announced a special islandwide security programme for Vesak Week to ensure the public can observe religious activities in a peaceful and secure environment.
Authorities said the measures were introduced in view of heightened religious observances during the Vesak season, with Buddhists worldwide preparing to mark Vesak Full Moon Poya Day on May 30, 2026. Large crowds are expected at major Buddhist sites, while Vesak lantern displays, pandals and Bhakthi Gee programmes will be held across the island.
Under the special plan, the Inspector General of Police has directed all police stations to take steps to minimise traffic congestion and ensure public convenience in areas with high footfall. Enhanced day and night mobile patrols will be deployed across all divisions, alongside special operations aimed at safeguarding public safety and protecting property during the festive period.
Authorities warned that strict legal action will be taken against individuals or groups whose behaviour is deemed to undermine the dignity and sanctity of Vesak or cause inconvenience to devotees.
In a set of public guidelines issued for the season, the Police Department urged organisers of Dansal programmes to comply with health and safety standards and to implement proper crowd management measures to prevent congestion.
The public has been advised to refrain from behaviour deemed inappropriate for the religious season, avoid excessive noise, and ensure responsible use of loudspeakers with prior approval. Devotees have been requested to abstain from alcohol and narcotic substances during Vesak activities, while being urged to remain vigilant against theft in crowded areas and ensure the safety of children and elderly persons.
The Police Department further encouraged the public to report emergencies via hotlines 118 and 119 and to submit relevant video footage of traffic violations or environmental offences through designated WhatsApp channels for legal action.
The security rollout pairs with the registration of 2,388 Vesak dansal islandwide through the PHI Union, the Education Ministry circular on Vesak Week activities at schools, the official state Vesak festival running May 27–June 2, and the May 31 Vesak Poya public holiday gazette.
