Notable Services

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.

The cafeteria, refurbished with a modern appearance under the guidance of the Police Seva Vanitha Unit, was ceremonially declared open on the morning of 23.02.2026 under the patronage of Priyantha Weerasuriya, Inspector General of Police and Attorney-at-Law. The facility will be managed in an organized and systematic manner under the complete supervision and direction of the Police Seva Vanitha Unit. It is intended to provide nutritious meals and refreshments at affordable prices to officers permanently attached to the Police Headquarters, as well as to members of the public who visit the Headquarters to obtain various services. Promoting the economic well-being of police families remains a key objective of the Police Seva Vanitha Unit. In line with this goal, employment opportunities within the cafeteria have also been extended to family members of police officers. Among those who attended the opening ceremony were the Chairperson of the Police Seva Vanitha Unit, Nilmini Samaratunga; Senior DIG in charge of Administration, Sanjeewa Dharratne; Senior DIG in charge of the Assistant Services Directorate, Rajitha Sri Daminda; the Chairperson of the Community Committee of the Seva Vanitha Unit, Sunethra Weerakkody; Police Headquarters DIG, Nalaka de Silva; Deputy Secretary of the Seva Vanitha Unit, Darshika Kumari; and Chief Inspector of Police Padmini Jayaweera, Officer-in-Charge of the Police Seva Vanitha Unit, along with several other officers and members of the Unit.

Arrive early Special Traffic Arrangements

The Police Marine Division has expanded its operations A strategic review of Police Marine Division’s rescue operations (2025-2026) Your safety, Our priority

Special Message to Moblie Phone Users 1019 Stolen mobile phones were traced in the year 2025 What you should do when you lose your mobile phone ?  Public Awareness on Steps to Be Taken in the Event of Loss or Theft of Mobile PhonesComplaints relating to the loss, misplacement, and theft of mobile phones are reported daily to police stations across the island. In particular, when a mobile phone is lost, misplaced, or stolen, there is a significant risk of misuse if the device falls into the hands of unauthorized individuals. The public must remain vigilant regarding such potential misuse and take immediate precautionary measures. It has been observed that lost or stolen mobile phones are frequently used for anti-social, unlawful, and illicit activities. In such instances, the legitimate owners of the devices often become victims. Based on complaints received to date, it is evident that criminals are able to exploit mobile phones containing sensitive data including financial details, personal information, photographs, and other confidential material to achieve their unlawful objectives. There are several important steps that should be followed if a mobile phone is lost or stolen: • Immediately deactivate the SIM card. SIM deactivation can be carried out through the respective service provider from whom the SIM card was obtained. This action prevents third parties from using the phone for illegal or anti-social activities. Deactivating the SIM card also facilitates the recovery process if the device is in another person’s possession. • Provide the IMEI number when lodging a complaint. When reporting a lost or stolen mobile phone to the Sri Lanka Police, it is essential to include the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number. • Keep a record of the IMEI number and service details. It is the responsibility of mobile phone users to securely retain their device’s IMEI number and related service information prior to any loss or theft. The IMEI number can be obtained by dialing *#06# on the mobile phone. Furthermore, the Sri Lanka Police has introduced a software-based system to trace mobile phones. Individuals may register their details by visiting the official website: ineed.police.lk. Upon submission of the relevant information, the Sri Lanka Police will promptly initiate appropriate action. In 2024, the Sri Lanka Police successfully recovered 2,796 lost mobile phones and returned them to their rightful owners. Additionally, 928 stolen mobile phones were released to the public following accurate data verification, and legal action was instituted against the offenders. In 2025, 2,355 lost mobile phones were recovered, and 1,019 individuals in possession of stolen phones were apprehended, with legal proceedings initiated accordingly. Moreover, if a person finds property that does not belong to them, they should immediately hand it over to the nearest police station or a police officer and obtain an acknowledgment receipt or officially lodge a report. Retaining property that does not belong to oneself constitutes a criminal offense under the Sri Lanka Penal Code, identified as criminal misappropriation. This offense may result in imprisonment of up to two (02) years. Therefore, unlawfully keeping another person’s property in one’s possession is punishable by law. Furthermore, any individual who knowingly purchases stolen mobile phones or other stolen property at a reduced price and retains such items commits an offense and may face imprisonment of up to three (03) years. When purchasing a new or second-hand mobile phone, members of the public can verify whether the device has been reported to a police station as lost or stolen through the “Find Genuine Phone” feature available in the “I Need” system. Accordingly, the Sri Lanka Police advises the public to exercise due diligence regarding the source and authenticity of mobile phones prior to purchase.

Under a concept introduced by the wife of the Inspector General of Police and Chairperson of the Police Seva Vanitha Unit, Mrs. Nilmini Samaratunga, the ‘Ru Siri’ beauty parlour previously established at the Colombo Police Field Force Headquarters and the Parliament Shopping Complex was officially opened at the Anuradhapura Police Station premises on 07.02.2026. This marks the commencement of expanding the Ru Siri beauty parlour initiative to police stations across the island. The primary objective of this project is to encourage the general public, particularly women, to visit police stations to present their concerns, thereby fostering closer and more approachable relationships between the police and the community. The beauty parlour will offer services at highly affordable rates and will also create employment opportunities for family members of police officers who possess professional skills in the beauty and cosmetology field. The opening ceremony was held under the patronage of the Chairperson of the Police Seva Vanitha Unit, Attorney-at-Law Mrs Nilmini Samaratunga, with the participation of Senior Superintendent of Police in charge of the Anuradhapura Division, Mr. Thilina Hewa Pathirana; Assistant Superintendent of Police – Anuradhapura District I, Mr. Prabath Withanage; Anuradhapura Headquarters Chief Inspector Mr. Jayaweera; Officer-in-Charge of the Anuradhapura Division Children and Women’s Bureau, Chief Inspector Ms. Shyamali Dissanayake; and Officer-in-Charge of the Police Seva Vanitha Unit, Chief Inspector Ms. Padmini Jayaweera.

Press Conference – Part 01 Press Conference – Part 02

In conjunction with the 78th Independence Day celebrations, officers of the Community Police Division visited the Lankarama Viharaya in Borella on the morning of 05.02.2026 to offer comfort and companionship to senior citizens residing in an elderly care home, where they are spending their later years. With the objective of nurturing compassion and respect for the elderly among the younger generation, children from the Tiny Tots Pre-School operated by the Community Police Division were also invited to participate in the event. Arrangements were made to provide the senior citizens with several hours of joyful musical entertainment, featuring performances by the Police Western Band. Well-known entertainers Suneth Chitrananda and Anura Srinath, recognized for their contributions to comedy and music, also took part in the program, further enriching the entertainment. Additionally, the Community Police Division arranged lunch for the residents of the elderly care home on the same day. The program was organized under the guidance of the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of the Community Police and Environment Directorate, Mr. Roshan Rajapaksa, based on a concept introduced by the Inspector General of Police. The event was coordinated by the Director of the Community Police Division, Senior Superintendent of Police Mr. D.K. Priyantha, and was graced by the presence of the Deputy Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs, Mr. Sunil Watagala, who attended upon invitation.

The 2026 ICC T20 World Cup Cricket Tournament will be held from 07 February to 08 March 2026. Matches scheduled to be played in Sri Lanka will take place at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Maligawatte, and the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) Stadium, Kurunduwatte, with Colombo serving as the central host city. As a large number of local and foreign spectators are expected to attend these matches, the Colombo Traffic Division has formulated a special traffic management plan to be implemented on match days, as outlined below. Traffic Plan for Matches at R. Premadasa Stadium Traffic restrictions will be imposed as necessary on the following roads: * Entry towards Babapulle from the junction of Vinson Perera Mawatha (Grandpass  Road) via Britto Babapulle Bridge Road* Entry towards the stadium from the vicinity of Babapulle Bridge* Entry towards the stadium from Sebastian Ela Road via Melwatte Bridge* Entry towards the stadium from the junction of Adi 100 Para and Temple Road* Entry towards the stadium from the side road near Maligawatte Lane (Stadium Road)* Entry towards the stadium from the junction of Saddharma Mawatha and Temple Road (Khettarama Road) The Sri Lanka vs Ireland, India vs Pakistan, and Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe matches will be held at the R. Premadasa Stadium on 08, 15, and 19 February 2026, respectively. On these dates: * A special traffic plan will be enforced.* Parking facilities have been arranged at: * R. Premadasa Stadium Car Park* Mati Park Car Park – Grandpass Police Division  Parking for Other Match Days For matches scheduled on 11, 13, 21, 25, and 27 February 2026, parking will be permitted at designated areas around the stadium, as per usual arrangements.  Additional parking facilities have been provided at: * Grandpass Mati Park Car Park* Sathosa Car Park* Sebastian Ela Car Park* Kovila Road* Apple Watta* Both sides of Adi 100 Para  Traffic Plan for Matches at SSC Stadium Traffic movement will be restricted on 07, 09, 10, 14, and 18 February 2026, on the following routes: * Entry into Maitland Place from the Government Administration Junctionr* Maitland Place from the Vidya Mawatha Junction* Vidya Mawatha from the Wijerama Junction  Designated Parking Areas for SSC Stadium Matches * SSC Stadium Car Park* SSC Sports Club Car Park* Colombo Municipal Council Car Park – Nidahas Mawatha* Sri Lanka Foundation Mawatha Car Park* CR & FC Car Park* Old McDonald’s Car Park – Ministry of Sports* Rupavahini Corporation Car Park* BMICH Car Park Security Arrangements A total of 1,500 police officers and 600 traffic police officers have been deployed to ensure the safety and security of local and foreign spectators attending the T20 World Cup matches. Important Notices to the Public * Spectators are strictly prohibited from bringing the following items into the stadium: * Large bags* Glass bottles* Drone equipment* Sharp objects or knives* Drugs and alcoholic beverages Intelligence officers and police officers in civilian attire will be deployed within and around the stadium premises to enhance public safety.