The police have assured that they will identify and take action against the officers who stole cigarette cartons from the Villimale' police station.

Police said any such violation of police ethical standards and basic principles are investigated as a serious matter.

"The service will take all necessary steps to identify the person or persons involved and take appropriate action," the agency said in a statement.

It further said employees will not be allowed to undermine the respect of the police and cause the public to lose confidence in the agency.

“The main objective of this institution is to make all employees of the police service accountable, honest and provide sincere services to the people,” it read.

Police have launched two investigations after cigarette cartons went missing while under the custody of the Villimale' police station.

On May 23, police confiscated 32 cigarette cartons from a foreign national. Six cartons were found to be missing on November 12.

They also confiscated 25 cigarette cartons from two foreign nationals on December 23, 2024. It was discovered to have gone missing on November 12.

Both cases are being investigated by the Police Professional Standards Command. The two cases are also being investigated as criminal cases.