The Cabinet of Ministers has approved the publication of a new Bill aimed at preventing and combating organised crime, and its subsequent presentation to Parliament for approval.

The proposed legislation seeks to introduce the necessary legal provisions to protect society from threats posed by organised criminal groups and to prevent and combat serious offences.

It also aims to give effect to the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organised Crime and strengthen efforts to curb organised crime through national and international cooperation.

The Cabinet had decided on 30 March to proceed with drafting the legislation. The Bill, prepared by the Legal Draftsman, has subsequently received clearance from the Attorney General.

Accordingly, the Cabinet approved a joint proposal submitted by Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara and Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala to publish the Bill in the Government Gazette and thereafter present it to Parliament for approval.