Community policing enhanced in Matara

by P.P.G.Sugathadasa, Thihagoda gr. cor.

Community policing programs have been launched in the Matara district, said the Program Co-ordinator and Director of the Institute for Development of Community Strengths Matara Condrad Ranawake.

Civil Defence committees in the Grama Niladhari divisions of Totamuna, Kadeveediya, Walpola and Wewahamanduwa in the Matara police area have also been strengthened under these programs, he said.

Training programs on community policing have been extended to the Thihagoda, Akuressa, Gandara and Dickwella police stations. Over 75 police officers of these police stations have been provided training in these services under these programs. They include community police concept, formation of a people-friendly police service and setting up civil defence committees.

More than 400 chairmen of these civil defence committees in areas under the purview of all five police stations in Matara, Thihagoda, Akuressa, Gandara and Dickwella in the district of Matara have already been educated on the significance of implementing these programs, Ranawake said. Minimising acts of crime and minor complaints will be the main objective of these programs, he said.

The programs are funded by the Asia Development Foundation and the British High Commission.