Sri Lanka, Feb. 19 -- We need to understand why people harm others and break the law. Crime involves rule-breaking, while violence involves intentional harm-doing using physical means. In the recent past, the Ministry of Public Security has launched island-wide operations against organised crime and narcotics. This is highly commendable, as every law-abiding Sri Lankan has a right to live in safety. As a responsible nation, we must analyse the core reasons that entice people to commit crimes, knowing that they will be punished under the law.

One of the areas often overlooked by the police is the psychological and emotional aspects linked with criminals, especially repeat offenders. If these aspects are given due emphasis, the police can ...