Sri Lanka Police have announced that legal action will be taken against bus operators who charge passengers more than the stipulated fares. 

The warning follows public complaints that both the Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) and private buses engaged in public transport have been demanding higher fares.

According to the Police, inspections carried out jointly with officials of the National Transport Commission revealed instances where passengers were overcharged. 

The Police state that under Section 173 of the Motor Traffic Act, bus owners, drivers, or conductors are prohibited from demanding or accepting fares exceeding those authorized by route permits. 

Offenders may also face charges under the Penal Code, including extortion, cheating, and dishonest misappropriation, they warned.

The Police further urged passengers not to pay fares above the stipulated rates and to lodge complaints if such incidents occur. 

They added that the public can file complaints immediately via telephone numbers 118 or 119, or submit in writing or verbally to the nearest Police station.