Feb 23, Colombo: Department of Archaeology in Sri Lanka is planning to establish a special police unit to protect and prevent destruction of archaeological monuments and conserve the archaeological and scientific heritage.

The new unit covering all districts in the country is set to start its functions on March 4 under the direction of Deputy Inspector General of Police Gamini Navaratne and Director of Crimes Section, M.K.D.W. Amarasinghe in coordination with the senior police officer of the respective police area.

The unit is empowered to take stringent action according to the rules and regulations of the department against any destruction of archaeological treasures. Public can give information regarding any unlawful activity to the unit which will be in operation for 24 hours a day on telephone numbers 011 7222333 or 0112694727, Director General of Archaeology Dr. Senarath Dissanayake said.