13th August 2023 14:17:32 Hours
The West troops, along with the Fire Brigade and local authorities, swiftly responded to a bushfire that erupted at Thabbowa Reserve in the Karuwalagaswewa area on the evening of 11 August 2023. The District Forest Officer provided information about the incident, which resulted in the destruction of approximately 200 acres of land.
The 16 Battalion Gajaba Regiment of the 143 Infantry Brigade, under the 14 Infantry Division of the Security Forces (West), demonstrated their dedication by taking immediate action to combat the fire. Led by one officer and 30 other ranks, worked tirelessly alongside the Fire Brigade and local authorities to douse the flames and prevent further damage to nearby areas.
The Commander, 143 Infantry Brigade and Commanding Officer of the 16 Battalion Gajaba Regiment supervised the operation under the guidance of the General Officer Commanding, 14 Infantry Division and the Commander, Security Forces (West).