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The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs issued a stern warning on February 3, 2025, regarding increasing encroachment within the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary.
The Ministry expressed deep concern over the surge in unauthorized activity within the sanctuary and its surrounding areas.
The Ministry emphasized that the 600-acre sanctuary is a designated and protected Tourism Development Area, making any occupation or construction within its boundaries illegal.
In a press release, the Ministry stated, “It is deeply concerned with the surge of encroachment within the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary and its environs.”
The Ministry urged the public to be aware of the protected status of the sanctuary and advised all individuals to stay clear of the area. “Encroachers or defaulters will face the full force of the law which may warrant arrest, prosecution, imprisonment and demolition of structures,” the statement warned.
The Ministry has called for the immediate vacation of the area by all occupants and encroachers. “Occupants or encroachers are therefore advised to immediately vacate the area. You have been warned from the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs,” the release concluded.
