Over 71,000 security men deployed in Lanka ahead of election

January 06, 2015 20:10

Sri Lanka has deployed over 71,000 security personnel for the smooth conduct of the Presidential elections on Thursday, a top police official said today.

Inspector General of Police NK Illangakoon said 66,100 police and 5,000 Special Task Force personnel have been deployed to ensure a free and fair election.

Police spokesperson Senior Superintendent of Police Ajith Rohana said 420 permanent road barricades will be in place in addition to instant road blocks around the country to check suspicious vehicles and persons during election time.

President Mahinda Rajapaksa, who is seeking a record third straight term in office, is pitted against Maithripala Sirisena, his former health minister, who is now his main challenger in the polls after defecting to the opposition.

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