Sri Lanka police mark 146 years

by Sarath MALALASEKERA

The Police Department would mark its 146th anniversary since its inception in 1866 on September 3, Police Media Spokesman Senior SP Attorney-at-Law Ajith Rohana said.

The first Inspector General of Police was P.W.R. Campbell while the 33rd Inspector General of Police was NK Illangakoon. The Police force has a manpower of approximately 84,100 personnel.

During the War, the police service became an integral art in maintaining the nation’s security, while primarily focusing on internal security. Many police personnel had been killed in the line of duty, mainly due to terrorist activities. Several policemen have laid down their lives in order to protect the country from the clutches of LTTE terrorism, while several policemen have been disable, said the police Media Spokesman.

Steps to look after the families of police War Heroes have been taken and strengthened throughout the years. The Police Welfare Division has taken all steps in connection with the pensions, insurance, compensation and monthly salaries and other subsidies of police were handed over to their families without delay, the Police Media Spokesman said.

‘Always take to heart that the Police is your friend and not an enemy, the Police Media Spokesman added.