Sri Lanka has witnessed a troubling rise in crimes against children over the past three years, according to a recent National Audit Office report. Between 2022 and 2024, a total of 8,492 cases, including sexual abuse, murder, and exploitation, were recorded.
The audit highlights 4,309 incidents of sexual abuse and notes that 54 children were killed during this period. Year-wise, the report shows 2,821 cases in 2022, 2,764 in 2023, and 2,907 in 2024, reflecting a steady increase in offenses against minors.
The figures were included in the 2024 Police Department performance report, underscoring the urgent need for strengthened child protection measures.
by Lalith Chaminda 