Naqoura: The 16th Contingent of the Sri Lanka Force Protection Company (SLFPC) officially assumed peacekeeping duties under the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) on 04 July 2025. This new deployment marks a significant step in international peacekeeping efforts, with the Sri Lankan troops set to provide critical security services.

According to Ministry of Defence – Sri Lanka, the contingent is comprised of 125 Army personnel, including 11 Officers and 114 Other Ranks. The unit is under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Y.S.H.N.P Silva USP psc, with Lieutenant Colonel B.M.A.I.U Obayasena USP psc serving as the Second in Command. These experienced leaders are expected to guide the contingent in fulfilling its peacekeeping mandate effectively.

Additionally, the deployment includes four sniffer dogs, trained specifically for the detection of narcotics, explosives, and mines. This addition is aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of the unit, ensuring a more comprehensive security framew
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The SLFPC’s primary responsibilities include providing security to the UNIFIL Headquarters in Naqoura. Additionally, they are tasked with extending protection duties to VIPs as required, further underscoring the strategic importance of their role in maintaining peace and security in the region.