Special Events

The “Ratama Ekata” National Operations Headquarters and Media Centre was officially inaugurated on 26.06.2026 at a premises located on Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 07, under the patronage of the Hon. Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs, Mr. Ananda Wijepala. The primary objective of establishing this centre is to strengthen and expand coordinated national operations aimed at significantly disrupting both the supply and demand of illegal drugs, thereby eliminating drug trafficking and abuse across the country. In addition, the centre will enhance public awareness, education, and communication initiatives to discourage drug use and promote drug prevention. The “Ratama Ekata” National Drug Prevention Campaign, which was launched on 30.10.2025, has been operating successfully for the past eight months. The inauguration of the National Operations Headquarters and Media Centre, held in conjunction with the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, marks another significant milestone in advancing the objectives of the campaign. The event was attended by the Secretary to the Ministry of Public Security, Mr. Ravi Seneviratne; the Inspector General of Police, Attorney-at-Law Mr. Priyantha Weerasooriya; senior police officers; media spokespersons representing the Tri-Forces; and several senior officials from government institutions.

A large-scale public awareness march, attended by more than one thousand participants, was held today (26 June) to commemorate the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. In line with the national drug prevention program, “Iwathwenu,” launched on 30 October 2025 and successfully implemented over the past eight months, a series of awareness initiatives were conducted on 26 June 2026 at police stations and other relevant government institutions across the island. As the flagship event of these initiatives, the Ministry of Public Security organised a major awareness march from Colombo Port City to Kollupitiya Junction. The program was jointly conducted with the participation of the Ministry of Mass Media, the National Dangerous Drugs Control Board, the Department of Excise, the Sri Lanka Police, the Tri-Forces, the Rehabilitation Bureau, the National Youth Services Council, and numerous other ministries, departments, organisations, and institutions. Held under the theme, “Let’s Walk with Pride Towards a Drug-Free Nation,” the march brought together more than one thousand police officers and young people. Awareness leaflets were distributed to members of the public along the procession route, while participants educated the community on the importance of public cooperation in preventing drug abuse and trafficking. Special emphasis was placed on promoting the 1818 hotline and increasing public awareness of the services provided by the Rehabilitation Bureau. The march was attended by the Hon. Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs, Mr. Ananda Wijepala; Hon. Minister of Women and Child Affairs, Ms. Saroja Paulraj; Deputy Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs, Mr. Sunil Watagala; Colombo District Member of Parliament, Ms. Samanmali Gunasekara; Secretary to the Ministry of Public Security, Mr. Ravi Seneviratne; and Inspector General of Police, Attorney-at-Law Mr. Priyantha Weerasooriya. The event was further enhanced by performances from the Sri Lanka Police Band, the Sri Lanka Navy Band, and the dance and cultural groups of the National Youth Services Council, adding colour and vibrancy while attracting greater public attention to the campaign. The Community Policing and Environmental Protection Directorate made a significant contribution to organising the march in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Security, while officers attached to the Police Traffic Headquarters and several police divisions in and around Colombo ensured the safety and smooth conduct of the procession. A Shared Responsibility for a Drug-Free Sri Lanka “As citizens of Sri Lanka, it is our collective responsibility to foster a drug-free society in order to achieve the sustainable economic and social development our nation aspires to. People of all ages, regardless of race or religion, should actively contribute to this national effort by supporting the Sri Lanka Police and providing valuable information to assist in the fight against illegal drugs. Become a proud partner in the “Let’s Quit Drugs Together” National Drug Prevention Programme, through which the Sri Lanka Police, government institutions, and non-governmental organisations are working collectively to suppress the supply of illicit drugs, reduce public demand, and build a safer, healthier, and drug-free Sri Lanka for future generations.”

A special project is currently being implemented under the guidance and directives of the Inspector General of Police, Attorney-at-Law Mr. Priyantha Weerasooriya, with the aim of enabling the public to conveniently access a wide range of services offered by the Sri Lanka Police through modern digital technology. Upon completion of the project, a mobile application compatible with both iOS and Android operating systems, along with a newly developed official police website, will be made available for public use on personal devices. Through this mobile application, users will be able to easily access updates, news, photographs, and videos published by the Police Media Division via social media platforms. A key objective of the application is to deliver urgent and important information promptly through push notification services. The application is also being developed to facilitate easy access to essential police services, including applications for police clearance reports, emergency contact numbers, and location-based alerts during critical situations. The Police Information Technology Division is responsible for the technical development, support, and maintenance of the application and website. The software solution has been developed by the private company “Vampior Design” Software Development (Pvt) Ltd, while content development and management are being handled by the Police Media Division. Accordingly, this application is expected to become a widely used digital platform on citizens’ smartphones, significantly reducing the time and effort currently required to obtain police services and access official information. A progress review meeting regarding this project was held at Police Headquarters on 16.06.2026 under the patronage of the Inspector General of Police. The meeting was attended by Staff DIG Mr. Roshan Dias, DIG in charge of Research and Information Technology Ms. Nishani Seneviratne, Director of the Police Information Technology Division SSP Mr. K.G. Laksiri Geethal, Director of the Police Media Division and Police Media Spokesperson Mr. F.U. Wootler, along with other senior officers, as well as the Managing Director of “Vampior Design” Software Development (Pvt) Ltd, Mr. Asanka Bandara, and representatives of the company.

The Sri Lanka Police remains committed to maintaining a strong, effective, and responsive law enforcement mechanism across every police division in the country, ensuring the preservation of law, order, and public safety. In line with this vision, the Ministry of Public Security continues to facilitate the development of a community-oriented and efficient policing framework in the Northern Province, which is experiencing steady physical, social, and economic progress. These efforts are aimed at ensuring that all residents of the province can live under the protection of the law while enjoying a secure and peaceful environment. Accordingly, during the official visit to the Northern Province on 13 and 14 June 2026, the Hon. Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs, Mr. Ananda Wijepala, together with the Inspector General of Police, Attorney-at-Law Mr. Priyantha Weerasooriya, ceremonially declared open the newly constructed administrative building of the Kopay Police Station and several newly upgraded official residences of Officers-in-Charge (OICs). The following OIC official residences were officially opened:* Kankesanthurai* Kopay* Palali* Kodikamam* Chavakachcheri* Chunnakam* Kayts These development initiatives are expected to enhance the welfare of police officers serving in the Northern Province and further strengthen the delivery of effective and people-friendly policing services to the community. The ceremonies were attended by senior government officials of the respective areas, the Senior Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of the Northern Province, Mr. G.M.H. Buddhika Siriwardena, Deputy Inspectors General of Police, Divisional Police Officers, Officers-in-Charge, and other distinguished invitees.

The ceremonial opening of the newly constructed administrative building of the Kopay Police Station in the Jaffna Division was held on 14.06.2026 under the patronage of the Hon. Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs, Mr. Ananda Wijepala, with the participation of the Inspector General of Police, Attorney-at-Law Mr. Priyantha Weerasooriya. Established on 06 January 1966, the Kopay Police Station has now been equipped with a modern administrative complex constructed at a cost of approximately Rs. 47 million. The police division comprises 27 Grama Niladhari Divisions and serves a population of nearly 64,500 residents within an area of 51 square kilometres. The division is also home to the University of Jaffna and the Jaffna Teachers’ College. The event was attended by the Hon. Governor of the Northern Province, Mr. Nagalingam Vethanayahan; Members of Parliament representing the Jaffna District, including Mr. Marudalingam Pradeepan; the Jaffna District Secretary; the Commander of Security Forces Headquarters – Jaffna, Major General Mr. Priyantha Navaratne; the Senior Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of the Northern Province, Mr. Buddhika Siriwardena; and several other distinguished invitees and officials. The new facility is expected to further enhance the administrative efficiency of the police station and improve the quality of services provided to the public in the area.

The Forensic Photography and Videography Course (Batch No. 28), organized by the Crime Records Division, was successfully concluded on 12.06.2026. The certificate awarding ceremony was held at Police Headquarters under the patronage of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Attorney-at-Law Priyantha Weerasuriya. The event was attended by Senior Deputy Inspector General of Police (Crime and Traffic), Ranmal Kodituwakku; Deputy Inspector General in charge of the Crime Directorate, Jayasiri Kodituwakku; Director of the Crime Records Division, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ruwan Kumara; along with other senior officers. The 45-day training programme was conducted from 22.04.2026 to 12.06.2026. The course covered the following key areas: * Forensic photography and videography* Fundamentals of forensic science and forensic medicine* Operation of modern digital camera systems and related technologies* Legal knowledge required for court proceedings and evidentiary purposes* Practical field workshops (Horton Plains, wildlife environments, and forensic settings)* Updated understanding of international trends and best practices* Crime scene documentation, protest coverage, investigative photography, and surveillance videography Upon completion of the course, the participating officers will be deployed to police divisions across the island, where their services will support investigative and operational requirements within the Sri Lanka Police.

The book “Crime Prevention and Victim Counseling”, authored by Senior DIG Dr. Dinesh Karunanayake, in charge of Special Security and Elections, was officially presented to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Attorney-at-Law Mr. Priyantha Weerasooriya, at Police Headquarters on 10.06.2026. Senior DIG Mr. Sanjeewa Dharmaratne, along with several senior police officers, attended the presentation ceremony. Senior DIG Dr. Dinesh Karunanayake is a distinguished author and lyricist within the Sri Lanka Police. He previously published the book “Drug Addiction and Rehabilitation” in 2012 and “Job Satisfaction and Effectiveness of Police Officers” in 2023. In addition to his literary contributions, Dr. Karunanayake has penned lyrics for several notable songs, including “Minisa Nubai” composed for the Sri Lanka Police, and “Sri Dalada,” which was created for the exhibition of the Sacred Tooth Relic. His latest publication reflects his continued commitment to addressing contemporary social issues and contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the fields of crime prevention and victim support.

It is essential for every police officer to be a well-informed and up-to-date citizen in order to perform duties effectively in a rapidly evolving social environment shaped by modern technology and globalization. To achieve this objective, the Attidiya National Police Training Institute is already functioning efficiently by providing a range of training programmes aimed at enhancing the knowledge and professional competencies of serving officers. On 05.06.2026, the Hon. Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs, Mr. Ananda Wijepala, along with the Secretary to the Ministry of Public Security, Mr. Ravi Seneviratne, and the Inspector General of Police, Attorney-at-Law, Mr. Priyantha Weerasooriya, together with a senior delegation of police officers, conducted an inspection visit to the Attidiya National Police Training Institute to assess potential areas for further development. During the visit, the Hon. Minister instructed the Sri Lanka Police to evaluate the feasibility of upgrading the institution into a university-level training establishment. He also emphasized the need to expand opportunities for information technology-related training, accelerate ongoing construction activities, and take necessary measures to expedite development work. Furthermore, he assured that prompt action would be taken to facilitate the allocation of required funding for these initiatives.

The grand “Buddha Rashmi” Vesak Zone, which commenced on 30.05.2026 under the guidance of the Chief Incumbent of the Gangaramaya Temple, Venerable Kirinde Assaji Thero, concluded on the evening of 02.06.2026. To commemorate the successful conclusion of the Vesak Zone, the Sri Lanka Police organized a vibrant floral procession from the Gangaramaya Temple to Seema Malakaya that evening. More than 170 police officers, coordinated by the Police Buddhist and Religious Affairs Association under the leadership of Priyantha Weerasuriya, participated in the procession. Officers carried traditional ceremonial items including Sesath, Muthukudda, Buddhist flags, and floral decorations, while *Hevisi* drummers and cultural dance troupes added colour and splendour to the event. Personnel from the Police Cultural Division, the Police Special Task Force, and Police Headquarters took part in the procession, which was conducted with distinction. With the assistance and security arrangements provided by surrounding police stations, the event was held in a dignified and spectacular manner. Following the procession, Malcolm Ranjith, who had arrived at the temple premises, engaged in a cordial discussion with Sajith Premadasa and later participated in the activities of the Dansala organized within the temple grounds.

Recognizing the importance of fostering a positive change in public attitudes towards religion as a means of promoting a more virtuous society, the Sri Lanka Police have, over the past several days, conducted a series of religious programmes islandwide in observance of Vesak Poya Day. As part of this year’s Vesak commemorations marking the birth, enlightenment, and passing away of Lord Buddha, a grand devotional musical program was organized and broadcast live via social media as a key highlight. Accordingly, under the auspices of the Police Buddhist and Religious Affairs Association, the “Vesak Bhathi Gee Suyamaya 2026” was held in a grand manner at the Police Headquarters on the evening of 1 June 2026, under the patronage of the Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, Dr. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, and the Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs, Mr. Ananda Wijepala. Blessed by the Maha Sangha, the event commenced at approximately 7.00 p.m. with the participation of senior police officers led by the Inspector General of Police, Attorney-at-Law Mr. Priyantha Weerasooriya, along with invited dignitaries. The devotional program continued for two hours, featuring melodious performances by police officers accompanied by the Sri Lanka Police Western Band. Performances by the Police Cultural Division, along with vocal presentations by veteran singers including Senior DIG Mr. Kithsiri Jayalath (Southern Province) and Police Constable Buddhika Ushan both of whom have earned notable recognition within the Sri Lanka Police added colour and vibrancy to the event. Under the guidance and direct supervision of the Chairman of the Police Buddhist and Religious Affairs Association, IGP Attorney-at-Law Mr. Priyantha Weerasooriya, together with the Vice Chairman Senior DIG Mr. Sanjeewa Dharmaratne (Administration) and Secretary DIG Mr. Mahinda Dissanayake, the program was successfully organized. The event was coordinated by the Police Media Division with the support of the Police Information Technology Division, Crime Records Division, and Communications Division, and was broadcast live on the official Sri Lanka Police Facebook page.