Permission must be obtained when flying drones in nationally sensitive areas.

A 32-year-old resident of Balangoda area, who was operating a drone in the vicinity of Ruwanweliseya without obtaining permission from the Department of Archaeology, was arrested on the evening of 17.09.2025, by the Anuradhapura Headquarters Police.

A Chinese national who visited the country on a tourist visa was also arrested on 15.09.2025 for illegally flying a drone near the Sri Dalada Maligawa in Kandy without obtaining any permission.

In such circumstances, since actions are being taken to seize drones as productions, please refrain from operating drones near ancient sites, high-security locations, and areas with religious significance.

Before flying your drone, please contact the appropriate government authorities, including the police, to obtain the necessary permission, as they will respond to your request accordingly.