Sri Lanka, Oct. 13 -- Inspector General of Police Priyantha Weerasuriya has decided to charge fees for providing police security at events held for commercial purposes, such as concerts, while continuing to provide security for free at non-commercial events.

Acting Police Media Spokesperson Minura Senarath said that it remains the police's responsibility to maintain security and investigate locations where people gather.

The fees apply only to commercial events due to the larger number of officers required and the associated expenses.

As an example, ASP Senarath said that all commercial events at the Bandaranaike International Conference Hall (BMICH) will require organizers to request police security and pay the corresponding charges....