Colombo: The Sri Lankan government will deploy around 65,000 police officers to maintain order during the upcoming local government elections, said a police spokesman yesterday.

According to Nam News Network, Buddhika Manatunga told reporters that military personnel will also be mobilised as needed for the elections, which are scheduled for May 6. Manatunga emphasised that strict legal action will be taken against anyone violating election laws, noting that the police are working closely with the Elections Commission and election monitors.