NPC fills DIG vacancies

by Jayampathy Jayasinghe

The National Police Commission (NPC) is presently conducting interviews to fill the posts of eleven Deputy Inspector Generals of Police (DIGs) in the Police Department. NPC sources said the interviews were held on July 14, 15 and the final day has been fixed for July 21. The NPC had received 54 applications from senior superintendents who will vie for the eleven DIG posts.

The vacancies were not filled earlier owing to the delay in appointing new members to the NPC. The term of office the members of the previous NPC expired some time ago and the delay in appointing new members had held up promotions of several police officers.

However, President Mahinda Rajapaksa intervened and appointed new members to the NPC for the smooth functioning of the police department.

NPC sources said although a few retired officers will be called for interviews they will not be absorbed into the service."These officers had missed their promotions due to the non-functioning of the NPC. If they are promoted they will be able to draw higher pensions," sauces added.

Meanwhile, interviews for the selection of eight Co-ordinating officers will be held on July 29 and 31. NPC had received eighty applications in this regard. The Co-ordinators will handle complaints against police officers in out-stations.

Along with the Co-Ordinators, ten investigators will be appointed to probe into complains against the police by the public. NPC has received 60 applications in this regard.

Investigators will be chosen from experienced State officials who are experienced in conducting investigations. Meanwhile, a committee has been appointed to oversee the absorption of Reservists police officers into the regular police force. Sources also said that interviews for the selection of ASPs will be announced shortly.