The director general of the National Museum has complained that the probe into the theft of ancient swords at the museum has come to a standstill. She has told senior officials at the National Heritage Ministry that the failure of the authorities to increase the security at the museum following many requests made by her had helped the thieves who had burgled the museum.

According to the director general, the CCTV cameras at the museum had been functional on the day of the theft. She told the media that the cassettes had been handed over to the police for the investigation.

When inquired, the police spokesperson said that he was unable to say for sure if the CCTV cameras at the museum were operational or not at the time of the robbery. He has said such a statement would hamper the investigations.

However, National Heritage Minister Dr. Jagath Balasuriya has said that the CCTV cameras have not been operation since two days prior to the robbery.

When inquired, a senior CID official said they were continuing with the investigation and that they were awaiting approval from the Defence Secretary’s approval to record a statement from a well known political character. The officer has added that the CID planned to arrest the relevant person once the Defence Secretary returns from his official visit to Japan and that it would also help expedite the investigation.