Police have initiated a special operation in the Southern Province to identify foreign nationals driving without valid driving licenses. 

Police officials emphasised that providing vehicles whether rental, lease, or otherwise to foreign nationals without proper licensing is an offense, and legal action will be taken against vehicle or business owners violating this law, according to Police Media Spokesperson Assistant Superintendent of Police F.U. Wootler.

This aims to enhance safety for foreign visitors, following reports that five foreign nationals died in road accidents in Sri Lanka in 2025, with seven serious incidents involving foreigners also recorded. 

There were 78 minor accidents and six vehicle damage cases. Authorities noted that violations of the Motor Traffic Act by both drivers and vehicle owners have contributed to these incidents.