Sri Lanka, Oct. 30 -- Sri Lanka has been facing a wave of violent crimes for some time. It underscores the urgent need to strengthen the rule of law. The killing of Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman Lasantha Wickramasekara - also known as 'Midigama Lasa' - inside his office in broad daylight brought home the gravity of this situation.

This was not just another murder. It was a stark reminder that crime, particularly organised and drug-related violence, has begun to grip the people with a fear psychosis that their security is at stake. There is a Police debate sparked over it, with the opposition trying to pin blame on the Government. Be that as it may, it is a challenge that calls for a unified national response, not political blame.

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