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NAVSTRAT-2030 NAVSTRAT-2030

Powers of SLN Personnel in Law Enforcement under General Law CHAPTER 10
Even though the role of the SLN as a specialized force at sea to protect its ocean from threats; at PUBLIC AWARENESS AND SUPPORT
present the SLN assists government agencies to enforce the law under Section 21 of the Navy Act
No 34 of 1950. Following are the examples for non-naval duties assigned to SLN; Public awareness and support are crucial components for the success of a maritime strategy.
Whether a nation is focused on economic development, national security, environmental protection
th
● Gazette No 13,351 dated 17 October 1962 -Authorized members of the forces or international cooperation involving the public is essential. Public awareness and support are
under the Immigrants and Emigrant Act vital for the following main aspects;
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● Gazette No 13,791 dated 15 October 1963 -Powers of Officers and Sailors of the
Sri Lanka Navy to act as Custom Officers Main Aspects
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● Gazette No 13,943 dated 6 February 1964 -Prevention and Detection of the
dynamiting of fish in Sri Lankan waters  Maritime Security. Maritime security is integral to Sri Lanka’s overall national
security. The public needs to understand the importance of a strong maritime
Further Sections 95 (3), 96 of the Code of Criminal Procedure Act No. 15 of 1979 requires Service presence for safeguarding national interests and countering illegal activities.
personnel to perform certain duties in the dispersal of an unlawful assembly and arresting of  Resource Allocation. Support from the general public guarantees that the
persons involved in such assembly. government will provide enough funding for maritime projects. This covers
In addition to the above mentioned duties and responsibilities under the law of the state, the Public financing for research, infrastructure development, acquisitions and naval forces.
Security Ordinance (PSO) promulgated by His Excellency the President calls armed forces for  Economic Growth. A maritime strategy largely involves promoting trade,
duty under Section 12 of the PSO. Armed Forces are attributed the same powers conferred on ensuring the security of SLOCs and developing maritime infrastructure. Public
Police officers other than powers specified in Chapter XI of the Criminal Procedure Act. No. 15 support is essential to sustain these initiatives as they contribute to economic
of 1979 relating to the investigation of offences. growth and job creation.

Powers of SLN personnel in Law Enforcement under Emergency Law  Environmental Protection. Awareness is crucial for promoting sustainable
maritime practices. Public support can lead to the implementation of
The President has the authority to issue whatever regulations referred to as ‘Emergency Regulations’ environmentally friendly policies, such as reducing maritime pollution, protecting
appear to him to be necessary or expedient in the interests of public safety, the maintenance of public marine ecosystems and addressing the important climate change.
order, the suppression of mutiny, riot or civil unrest or for the upkeep of supplies and services vital to
community life under section 5 of the PSO. In times of emergency armed forces are allowed to  International Relations. A well-informed public can appreciate the role of
perform certain functions ordinarily performed by police officers. maritime diplomacy in fostering international cooperation. This support helps in
building positive relations with neighbouring countries and navigating international
maritime differences peacefully.

 Disaster Preparedness. Public awareness is vital for preparing communities for
maritime disasters. Support for emergency response plans and investments in
disaster management infrastructure can be reaped through public engagement.

The NAVSTRAT-2030 is committed to fostering public awareness and support through robust
education and outreach campaigns. Recognizing the pivotal role of maritime activities in the
nation’s development, these initiatives aim to enlighten the public on the multifaceted significance
of the maritime industry, emphasizing environmental conservation as a core component. Central
to this strategy is the implementation of comprehensive awareness campaigns that transcend
traditional communication channels. Leveraging both online and offline platforms, the SLN is
required to strive to simplify complex maritime concepts, making them accessible to diverse
audiences. Through engaging workshops, seminars and interactive exhibits, the SLN is required
to create immersive learning experiences that highlight the industry’s role in national development
and the imperative of environmental stewardship.

One of the main pillars of the outreach plan is collaboration. The SLN to collaborate with academic
institutions to incorporate marine and environmental themes into academic curricula, to educate
the next generation about these important subjects. The SLN is to place equal emphasis on
community involvement, collaborating closely with nearby communities to address concerns and
actively include them in the awareness-raising process.

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