Sri Lanka Army had dismissed 33,532 personnel last year as they have been absent without leave or have failed to report for duties, Military said.

The Daily Mirror today reported that a total of 71,458 personnel had failed to report for duties under their respective classified categories.

It further stated that SL Army had de-listed 33,532 personnel and discharged them in keeping with military procedure and provisions.

Since they failed to take the opportunity to surrender, they had to be subsequently traced down and arrested by the Military Police.

Daily Mirror stated that as they failed to report to their respective regiments, disciplinary action had to be taken against them.

Those who have deserted the Army for more than a year, would be recruited back to the service after a rehabilitation process. And if some want to leave service, they would be released. 

Defense Ministry had announced several amnesties in the past, but few had surrendered despite several calls from the military.