Over 17,000 Sri Lankan children found living in vulnerable conditions: minister

COLOMBO, Oct. 13 (Xinhua) -- More than 17,000 children in Sri Lanka are living in vulnerable conditions, Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs Ananda Wijepala told the media on Monday.

The minister said the figure was revealed through data collected in a recent study conducted by the Sri Lankan police.

He noted that these children are at risk of becoming involved in criminal activities and are also more likely to fall victim to drug use.

Wijepala added that steps are being taken to ensure these children receive the necessary protection and care.