DIG Gamini de Silva retires after 33 years

Sarath Gamini de Silva born on 03.09.1953 in the village of Bokkawala, Poojapitiya in the central hills joined the Police Department on 20.08.1974 as a Sub-Inspector. This illustrious police officer, having risen to the rank of Senior DIG has retired recently on reaching 60 years of age.

He was first posted to Galle Division as a trainee Sub Inspector. After serving in Badulla, Moneragala, Bandarawela and Bibile police stations and a stint in the staff of the Police Training College, he was appointed OIC of the Hungama Police Station 1984.

Due to his untiring efforts in combating organised crime and robberies as well as cannabis trade and vice in the area he earned the praise of both the department and the public and was duly rewarded with a promotion to the rank of Inspector of Police and was appointed HQI, Tangalle, an A-grade police station.

Senior DIG Gamini de Silva who is well known for crime busting and his knack to identify a suspect is much popular among his subordinates as well, for he gives utmost consideration for their welfare.

That no one speaks ill of him speaks volumes for this and it has been a blessing in his career.

His decision-making ability and exercising his authority without fear or favour are notable qualities in his career which were instrumental in him rising to the most senior position in the Police department, second only to the IGP.

The inspiration he got from his father Oliver de Silva, Inspector of Police and mother Soma de Silva, a teacher and the disciplined education he received from St. Sylvester's Collge, Kandy and the examples of gazetted officers and colleagues he came across which made him the complete Police Officer that he is.

He received a commendation from the IGP for the role he played as HQI Mannar during the period of terror in 1986, particularly for the way he led his men in the now famous 'Adampen Battle, minimizing the casualties. News of this battle adorned the front pages of the newspapers of the day due to his efficiency and astuteness.