Author name: Tharindu Withanage

Every year on March 8, International Women’s Day is commemorated worldwide to recognize the invaluable contributions of women and to highlight the challenges they continue to face. This day is not merely a celebration, but a symbol of the struggles, resilience, and achievements of women throughout human history. The movement that led to the establishment of International Women’s Day originated from the struggle of working women in New York City, USA, in 1908, who protested to demand their rights and better working conditions. Subsequently, at an international conference held in Denmark, a courageous leader named Clara Zetkin proposed that a special day be dedicated globally to advocate for women’s rights. Following this proposal, the day began to be observed in several European countries from 1911 onwards. Although the concept of International Women’s Day emerged at the global level earlier, it gained wider recognition in Sri Lanka after 1975 when the United Nations officially declared March 8 as International Women’s Day. With the theme “The Ambition of a Prosperous Nation – The Path of Women,” the Sri Lanka Police proudly joins the global community in commemorating International Women’s Day on 8 March 2026, extending its greetings and honoring the invaluable role of women. Women in the Sri Lanka Police Service – For the first time in the history of the Sri Lanka Police, women were recruited as police officers in 1952. The first intake consisted of several female Sub-Inspectors and Police Constables. Since then, women have steadily advanced within the Police Service and have risen to hold senior and distinguished positions. Services Provided by the Sri Lanka Police for Women * The Sri Lanka Police operates several specialized units dedicated to safeguarding women’s rights and ensuring their protection. * Children and Women Bureau: Established in nearly every police station, this unit investigates cases related to violence against women, domestic abuse, and child protection. It provides a safe and supportive environment for victims to report incidents and seek assistance. * Female police officers also conduct awareness programs at the community level, including village outreach programs and school safety initiatives aimed at educating and protecting women and children. Important Hotline Numbers for Women’s Safety Emergency hotline for reporting crimes against women and children (Sri Lanka Police): 109 Women’s Helpline (Ministry of Women’s Affairs – counselling and legal guidance): 1938 Emergency police hotline for urgent security assistance: 119 / 118 Sri Lanka Police hotline for lodging complaints in the Tamil language: 107 The Sri Lanka Police remains committed to ensuring the dignity, safety, and protection of women around the clock. On this special day, we extend our deepest respect and gratitude to all mothers, sisters, and daughters across the world who enrich our lives and contribute immensely to society.

In view of the prevailing global situation, the Inspector General of Police has issued a series of directives to all police stations island-wide to prevent any incidents that may threaten national security and public order. Accordingly, all police stations have been instructed to implement a special security program to ensure the protection of embassies, high commissions, official residences, and other premises affiliated with such diplomatic missions until further notice. The Inspector General of Police has further directed that comprehensive 24-hour security arrangements be established and executed to safeguard foreign nationals visiting or residing in Sri Lanka, their properties, and their places of accommodation. These security measures will also extend to individuals and assets located at business establishments, tourist attractions and destinations, residential complexes, as well as religious places of worship. Additionally, instructions have been issued to obtain the assistance and coordination of the Tri-Forces whenever necessary for the effective implementation of these security arrangements. The Police Media Spokesman’s statement

On the instructions of the Inspector General of Police, Attorney-at-Law Mr. Priyantha Weerasooriya, the Sri Lanka Police has launched an intensified programme of drug raids and public awareness activities in view of Drug Prevention Week, commencing on 01.03.2026, in line with the national campaign “Country Together – Quit.” Accordingly, under the leadership of the Officer-in-Charge of the Colombo Central Division, Senior Superintendent of Police Mr. Mahesh Kumarasinghe, together with the Officer-in-Charge of District 1, Senior Superintendent of Police Mr. Buddhika Gunasekara, and Superintendent of Police Mr. Minura Senarath, police officers distributed awareness leaflets to the public and displayed stickers on three-wheelers around Bastion Mawatha, Fort, Colombo on the morning of 03.03.2026, highlighting the confidential short code 1818. The 1818 hotline is a dedicated and strictly confidential service that enables the public to provide information related to drug-related activities to the police. Recent reports confirm that such small but timely tips have resulted in several successful large-scale drug raids. Let us work together to eradicate drugs from our homeland. Refer those affected by addiction to rehabilitation services and help guide them towards a better and more dignified life. If you have any information, please call 1818.

Amid the demanding responsibilities carried out by police officers in the capital city, the Police Media Division organized a musical entertainment programme titled “Abhiman Sathsara” on the evening of 27.02.2026 at the Colombo Crime Records Division Auditorium. The event was conducted with the participation of a large number of officers representing nearby police divisions, providing them with a well-deserved opportunity for relaxation and fellowship. The programme was organized at the invitation of the Director of the Police Media Division and Police Media Spokesperson, Assistant Superintendent of Police Mr. Fredrick Wootler. The main performance was led by the distinguished music critic and Lyricist Mr. Dhammika Bandara. The evening was further enriched by the harmonious performances of the Police Western Band, whose captivating melodies added vibrancy and elegance to the occasion. The two-hour programme was skillfully compered and musically interpreted by Mr. Dhammika Bandara, who presented a selection of classic film songs, Hindi melodies, and meaningful poetic compositions. Blending humour, emotion, and artistic insight, he created a memorable and engaging musical experience for all in attendance. Among the distinguished guests present were the Deputy Inspector General of Police for the Colombo District, Mr. Nishantha Zoysa; the Deputy Inspector General of Police of the Crime Records Division, Mr. Jayasiri Kodituwakku; the Director of the Crime Records Division, Senior Superintendent of Police Mr. Ruwan Kumara; and several other senior police officers. Also in attendance were senior journalist Mr. Norman Palihawadana and Mr. Kithsiri Hewagama, producer of the stage drama “Neyanage Suduwa,” which had previously been staged by the Police Media Division. The auditorium was filled to capacity with police officers of all ranks, including members of the Police Media Division, reflecting the strong enthusiasm and appreciation for the arts within the Police Service. The program concluded successfully, leaving participants refreshed and inspired amidst their demanding professional commitments.