Sri Lanka Police have raised concerns over the increasing misuse of the ‘119’ emergency hotline by certain members of the public, stressing that such actions undermine the effectiveness of emergency response services.
Police Media Spokesman ASP F.U. Wootler stated that false and non-emergency calls to the ‘119’ service have continued even during periods of adverse weather, forcing the Police to take enforcement action against offenders. He emphasized that the hotline is intended strictly for emergencies, urgent situations, criminal incidents, and information requiring immediate police intervention to protect citizens’ civil rights.
However, the Police have observed a rise in misleading and unnecessary calls, including inquiries related to water and electricity services, financial matters, and land disputes. Such misuse, ASP Wootler warned, disrupts operations and can delay assistance to those facing genuine emergencies.
He revealed that several phone numbers responsible for repeated abuse of the hotline have been identified, and access to the ‘119’ service has been temporarily suspended for those numbers as a preventive measure.
Reiterating an appeal to the public, the Police urged citizens to use the ‘119’ emergency service responsibly and only for urgent police-related matters. To help reduce misuse, the Police also reminded the public of alternative hotline numbers available for non-emergency services and other specific public needs, including fire and rescue services, disaster management, child and women’s protection, transport, and government information services.
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