Security beefed up at National Museum; burglars still at large
Setting up of a permanent police post and deployment of police patrols are among a series of measures the authorities are taking to beef up security at the National Museum where three weeks ago burglars got away with priceless rings, swords, coins and other artefacts.
Other security measures include registration of visitors and specially-trained officials to detect suspicious activities in and outside the museum premises. The name, address and other identification details of the visitors will be recorded before they are allowed to enter the 135-year-old museum.
National Heritage Minister Jagath Balasuriya told the Sunday Times that in addition to these measures, special security hubs or sub-divisions would be set up inside the museum.
He said the museum’s CCTV system, which was malfunctioning at the time of the break-in, had been repaired but his ministry was going in for a new state-of-the-art alarm and CCTV system to keep every artefact of the museum under surveillance.
The minister said talks are being held with experts and relevant authorities regarding the new security measures and the funds re- quired to implement them.
Meanwhile, police, who have so far failed to arrest the culprits who committed the crime against the nation, said investigations were continuing while the second floor of the museum where the robbery took place still remains closed for visitors.
Police Media Spokesperson Ajith Rohana said Crime Investigation Department (CID) detectives were carrying out forensic analysis of the evidence collected from the crime scene. The Superintendent appealed to the public to provide whatever information they had regarding the burglary.
“If anyone knows of any person possessing artefacts resembling the ones stolen from the museum, he or she should call police on 0722117620 or 0777 887744,” he said.
The Police have already released photographs of the items that have been stolen. They include gem- studded rings, swords, coins and currency notes.