78th National Independence Day Parade

The 78th National Independence Day Parade of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka was ceremonially held on 04 February 2026 at Independence Square, Colombo, under the esteemed patronage of His Excellency the President, Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

Having ensured security at every Independence Day celebration since the first commemoration in 1949, the Sri Lanka Police once again played a pivotal role this year. Under the leadership of the Inspector General of Police, Attorney-at-Law Mr. Priyantha Weerasooriya, the Sri Lanka Police proudly participated in the national parade, upholding its longstanding tradition of service and dedication.

The celebrations commenced with the hoisting of the National Flag by His Excellency the President, who arrived in ceremonial procession at the forefront of police motorcycles, symbolizing authority and national pride.

Following the Presidential Address, the Awards Parade of the 78th Independence Day celebrations began, featuring the Tri-Forces, the Sri Lanka Police, the Civil Defence Force, and the National Cadet Corps.

The Sri Lanka Police Awards Parade was led by Senior Superintendent of Police Mr. Nishantha Chandrasekara, mounted on the horse Henk. He was flanked by mounted escorts bearing swords—Superintendent of Police Mr. Lasith Abeywickrama, Superintendent of Police Mr. Isuru Nishantha, and Assistant Superintendent of Police Mr. Ruchira Karunanayake.

Next, the Sri Lanka Police— the foremost state institution established on 03 September 1866 to maintain law and order—marched proudly behind the Police Flag. Bearing the historic motto “Dhammo Have Rakkathi Dhammachari” and the emblem of the elephant symbolizing strength, the formation was led by Assistant Superintendent of Police Mr. Chamara Herath. Two Sub-Inspectors of Police marched on either side, carrying ceremonial swords.

Thereafter, the oldest security force band in Sri Lanka, established in 1873—and the same band that proudly performed the National Anthem at the first Independence Day celebration—took center stage. Under the direction of Drum Major Police Constable Mr. Piumal Thilakaratne, the band led the Sri Lanka Police Battalion commanded by Assistant Superintendent of Police Mr. Sameera Rajapaksa. The Chief Drill Instructor, Sergeant Major Mr. Piyasiri Wijesundera, followed closely behind.

Subsequently, the Women Police Battalion, established on 01 January 1952, marched with distinction under the command ofy Women Assistant Superintendent of Police, Mrs. Inoka Liyanage.

The Police Special Task Force (STF), established in 1983 and widely recognized as one of the finest paramilitary forces in South Asia, also participated in the parade, proudly paying tribute to His Excellency the President.

The Police Special Task Force Flag, bearing the motto “Niyathai Jaya”, was carried by Chief Inspector of Police Mr. Chandana Piyasena.

The Police Special Task Force Band, led by Drum Major Police Constable Mr. Suneth Perera, guided the Police Special Task Force Battalion commanded by Assistant Superintendent of Police Mr. Gayan Sanjeewa. Demonstrating exceptional discipline and precision, the battalion was followed by the Chief Drill Instructor of the STF, Police Sergeant Mr. Chaminda Herath.

One of the most vibrant and visually striking segments of the Police Awards Parade was the appearance of the Police Horsemen, led by Superintendent of Police Mr. Minura Senarath. The Police Mounted Division, which originated in 1921 with eight British police officers, holds the distinction of being the second instance globally where mounted units were employed for police duties.

Training for the Sri Lanka Police Independence Day Parade was conducted under the supervision of Senior Deputy Inspector General of Police – Training and Advanced Training, Mr. Sampath Liyanage. The official explanatory commentary and announcements for the Police Awards Parade were delivered by Sub-Inspector of Police Mr. Nimal Abeysinghe of the Police Media Division.