IGP – Newswire https://www.newswire.lk Sri Lanka's largest News aggregator Thu, 03 Sep 2026 09:44:39 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.8 https://www.newswire.lk/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/favicon.png IGP – Newswire https://www.newswire.lk 32 32 Braille-based service for 119 Police emergency hotline to launch tomorrow https://www.newswire.lk/2026/09/03/braille-based-service-for-119-police-emergency-hotline-to-launch-tomorrow/ Thu, 03 Sep 2026 09:44:39 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=253200

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Priyantha Weerasooriya announced that a Braille-based service will be introduced for the 119 Police EmergencyContinue Reading

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Inspector General of Police (IGP) Priyantha Weerasooriya announced that a Braille-based service will be introduced for the 119 Police Emergency Hotline to assist people who are deaf, nonspeaking or blind.

Speaking to reporters, Weerasooriya said the service will be launched tomorrow (04) under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake in line with the 160th anniversary celebrations of Sri Lanka Police.

He said it would be the first such service introduced in Sri Lanka. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka Police highlights one year of IGP Priyantha Weerasooriya’s leadership https://www.newswire.lk/2026/08/17/sri-lanka-police-highlights-one-year-of-igp-priyantha-weerasooriyas-leadership/ Mon, 17 Aug 2026 12:03:27 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=250538

The Sri Lanka Police has marked the completion of one year in office by Inspector General of Police (IGP) PriyanthaContinue Reading

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The Sri Lanka Police has marked the completion of one year in office by Inspector General of Police (IGP) Priyantha Weerasooriya, outlining a wide range of achievements in crime prevention, institutional reforms, infrastructure development, and welfare initiatives for officers.

Weerasooriya, a seasoned law enforcement officer and Attorney‑at‑Law, was appointed as the 37th IGP of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka on 14 August 2025. 

Over the past year, his leadership has been credited with strengthening operational capabilities, modernizing facilities, and improving welfare for police personnel.

Police reported that under his tenure, 73 organized criminals and drug traffickers who had fled overseas were arrested and brought back to Sri Lanka with international cooperation, while steps have been taken to obtain Red Notices for 92 more wanted criminals abroad. 

A record 771,580 drug‑related raids were conducted, leading to the seizure of 5,246.896 kg of heroin, 43,600.694 kg of cannabis, and 9,490.985 kg of methamphetamine (Ice), with 770,098 suspects arrested. 

The highest number of firearms ever seized in police history, 6,966 weapons, was also recorded during this period.

Institutional reforms included the introduction of an evaluation mechanism to enhance police station efficiency, construction and renovation of police buildings, and the promotion of 4,680 officers across ranks, comprising 3,546 junior officers, 986 inspectors, and 148 senior gazetted officers. 

Educational and professional development opportunities were expanded, with 890 overseas training placements facilitated, including 26 for junior officers, 557 for inspectors, and 307 for senior gazetted officers. 

A new salary and pension structure has been formulated, alongside plans for a modernized uniform and revised recruitment qualifications. Recruitment drives are underway to add 7,500 new personnel to the Police and Special Task Force in 2026.

Infrastructure improvements have seen the procurement of 1,725 computers, 575 photocopiers, and 134 Tata single‑cab vehicles under Indian assistance, as well as the repair and modernization of existing vehicles at a cost of Rs. 1 billion. 

Additional investments were made in generators, radio communication units valued at Rs. 709.84 million, and construction projects for police residences and stations, with Rs. 1 billion allocated for new buildings and Rs. 3.9 billion for renovations.

Welfare initiatives have focused on improving facilities for single and married officers, expanding healthcare benefits, and enhancing services at the Police Hospital. 

Financial assistance for major medical procedures was increased from Rs. 500,000 to Rs. 2 million, while accommodation projects such as 350 married officers’ quarters at Harbour View Residencies in Colombo and the construction of 150 official residences for OICs were completed at a cost of Rs. 5.5 billion. 

Uniform allowances worth Rs. 1.1 billion were provided to junior officers, while procurement programmes amounting to Rs. 3.487 billion were initiated for essential welfare items including shoes, clothing, electronics, and household goods.

Other initiatives included the construction of the “Rajarata Sisila” accommodation complex in Anuradhapura, the reopening of “Gokanna Cottage” in Trincomalee, and expanded welfare funds, with Rs. 2.969 billion allocated for prizes in general and traffic cases and Rs. 795 million for recreational activities. 

Scholarships valued at Rs. 4.5 million each were awarded to 12 children of police officers through collaboration with CINEC Metro Campus.

In its statement, the Sri Lanka Police expressed deep appreciation for IGP Weerasooriya’s dedicated leadership, committed service and progressive initiatives, noting his efforts to strengthen the institution, safeguard officer welfare, and modernize operations. (Newswire)

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Sagara Kariyawasam arrested over comments on alleged plot to assassinate IGP https://www.newswire.lk/2026/08/10/sagara-kariyawasam-arrested-over-comments-on-alleged-plot-to-assassinate-igp/ Mon, 10 Aug 2026 05:37:26 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=249314

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) General Secretary Sagara Kariyawasam has been arrested by the Central Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) overContinue Reading

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Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) General Secretary Sagara Kariyawasam has been arrested by the Central Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) over comments he made regarding an alleged attempt to assassinate the Inspector General of Police (IGP).

Kariyawasam had been summoned to appear before the CCIB at 10.30 am on Monday (10) in connection with the remarks.

He had earlier said that his comments concerning the IGP had been misinterpreted.

Kariyawasam was arrested following his appearance before the CCIB. (Newswire)

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Police release official statement on death of former IGP C. D. Wickramaratne https://www.newswire.lk/2026/07/17/police-release-official-statement-on-death-of-former-igp-c-d-wickramaratne/ Fri, 17 Jul 2026 08:19:04 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=245699

The Sri Lanka Police today issued an official statement confirming the death of former Inspector General of Police (IGP) C.D.Continue Reading

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The Sri Lanka Police today issued an official statement confirming the death of former Inspector General of Police (IGP) C.D. Wickramaratne, who sustained gunshot injuries at his residence in Parakrama Road, Thalahena, within the Malabe Police Division, early this morning.

Police said Wickramaratne was admitted to the Eastern Colombo Teaching Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The Malabe Police Station has commenced investigations into the incident.

The body has been placed at the hospital for a post‑mortem examination, while further inquiries are being conducted by the Western Province South Division Criminal Branch together with the Malabe Police.

Wickramaratne served as the 35th Inspector General of Police of Sri Lanka from November 27, 2020 to November 23, 2023. He was 63 years old at the time of his death. (Newswire)

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More details on the death of former IGP C.D. Wickramaratne https://www.newswire.lk/2026/07/17/more-details-on-the-death-of-former-igp-c-d-wickramaratne/ Fri, 17 Jul 2026 05:20:01 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=245668

Two Police teams have been appointed to investigate the death of former Inspector General of Police (IGP) C.D. Wickramaratne, whoContinue Reading

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Two Police teams have been appointed to investigate the death of former Inspector General of Police (IGP) C.D. Wickramaratne, who was found dead early this morning, the Police said. 

Police Media Spokesman, ASP Wootler told Newswire that initial findings suggest the former IGP may have taken his own life using a firearm at his residence in Thalahena, Malabe. 

The former IGP was rushed to Mulleriyawa Hospital following the incident, but doctors pronounced him dead.

ASP Wootler said that former IGP C.D. Wickremaratne is assumed to have died in a suspected suicide. 

He further said that preparations are underway to conduct the postmortem and magisterial inquiries into the death, while statements are also to be recorded with regard to the incident. 

The Police Spokesman added that the appointed Police teams are to conduct a full inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the death. (Newswire)

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Police probe cyber threats using IGP’s name https://www.newswire.lk/2026/05/28/police-probe-cyber-threats-using-igps-name/ Thu, 28 May 2026 03:41:55 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=238012

Sri Lanka Police have launched an investigation into a cyber‑threat and extortion email network operating under the name of theContinue Reading

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Sri Lanka Police have launched an investigation into a cyber‑threat and extortion email network operating under the name of the Inspector General of Police (IGP).

The probe, led by the Special Task Force Cyber Security and Open Source Investigation Unit in coordination with the Cyber Crime Coordination Centre, has uncovered forged signatures and impersonation tactics designed to deceive the public.

Authorities warn that such activities could seriously damage the reputation of the Police and erode public trust. 

Citizens are urged to remain vigilant and follow these precautions:

  • Do not panic or be unnecessarily alarmed
  • Avoid responding to suspicious or threatening messages, and never make payments requested
  • Do not click on links contained in such emails
  • Report incidents immediately to the nearest police station, the Computer Crime Investigation Division, or the Police Special Task Force

Sri Lanka Police have assured that all necessary measures are being taken to identify and prosecute those behind these fraudulent activities. (Newswire)

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“No one can declare exclusive zones” PickMe writes to IGP https://www.newswire.lk/2025/12/29/no-one-can-declare-exclusive-zones-pickme-writes-to-igp/ Mon, 29 Dec 2025 08:50:55 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=216853

Digital Mobility Solutions Lanka PLC, the company behind Sri Lanka’s local taxi service provider ‘PickMe’, has formally written to theContinue Reading

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Digital Mobility Solutions Lanka PLC, the company behind Sri Lanka’s local taxi service provider ‘PickMe’, has formally written to the Inspector General of Police expressing grave concern over escalating incidents of intimidation, obstruction, and unlawful interference and violence directed at independent transport providers operating voluntarily through ride-hailing applications in key tourist locations. 

Issuing a statement, the company said its letter follows a series of incidents in Ella and other tourist-sensitive areas, where independent drivers using digital platforms have reportedly faced physical assault, property damage, and unlawful obstruction of public roads. Several of these incidents were captured on video and circulated widely online, it pointed out.

PickMe warned that what began as a commercial dispute has now evolved into a matter of public order, commuter safety, consumer protection, and national interest. “No individual or informal group has the authority to declare exclusive zones on public roads or national tourist sites,” Jiffry Zulfer, CEO of PickMe, stated, noting that every Sri Lankan citizen has a constitutional right to lawful employment and freedom of movement. 

PickMe emphasised that the visibility of these incidents among tourists poses a direct risk to Sri Lanka’s international image at a time when the country is actively rebuilding its tourism sector. “Such incidents undermine Sri Lanka’s image as a safe, welcoming destination and can have lasting consequences for the tourism sector and the wider economy,” the CEO added. 

The company further highlighted that the creation of so-called “exclusive zones” facilitates price manipulation, lack of transparency, and consumer exploitation, particularly affecting tourists and daily commuters who are denied fair choice and transparent pricing. Such practices distort fair market competition and operate to the detriment of consumers and the broader public.

“As the Government advances its National Digitisation Strategy 2025, including initiatives such as GovPay for police services, digital platforms have become part of Sri Lanka’s economic infrastructure,” noted the CEO of PickMe. “Organised intimidation threatens the livelihoods of over 100,000 Sri Lankan families who depend on digital mobility ecosystems for income.” 

PickMe further expressed concern over reports of uneven law enforcement at local level, where some independent drivers were allegedly advised to withdraw rather than being protected. The company called for clear, top-down directives to ensure consistent and impartial enforcement of the law across all provinces, particularly in tourist hotspots. 

In its communication to the Inspector General of Police, PickMe made several formal requests. It asked for written circular instructions to be issued to all police stations, particularly in tourist-sensitive areas, affirming the right of lawful transport providers to operate without intimidation or obstruction. PickMe also called for a zero-tolerance approach to organised, unlawful intimidation and “mafia-style” tactics targeting individuals who use digital platforms. In addition, it requested the establishment of an internal review mechanism, overseen by Police Headquarters, to monitor enforcement performance in tourist zones. Finally, PickMe proposed the creation of a Joint Stakeholder Coordination Forum that would bring together law enforcement and digital mobility platforms on a monthly basis to share evidence, assess risks, and develop a long-term safety framework. 

While reiterating that PickMe is a technology platform and not the employer of independent drivers, the company emphasised its moral and corporate responsibility to safeguard Sri Lanka’s digital economy and protect consumer choice and transparency. 

“We are committed to working collaboratively with law enforcement to ensure public safety, protect lawful livelihoods, prevent consumer exploitation, and preserve confidence in Sri Lanka’s transition toward a modern, digital economy,” PickMe said. 

The company has requested a meeting with the Inspector General of Police to discuss immediate measures and longer-term solutions to ensure safety for citizens, drivers, and visitors alike. (Newswire)

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Namal slams IGP, alleges political interference in law enforcement https://www.newswire.lk/2025/12/24/namal-slams-igp-alleges-political-interference-in-law-enforcement/ Wed, 24 Dec 2025 05:07:52 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=216452

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) National Organiser, MP Namal Rajapaksa, has strongly criticised the Inspector General of Police (IGP), statingContinue Reading

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Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) National Organiser, MP Namal Rajapaksa, has strongly criticised the Inspector General of Police (IGP), stating that he should feel ashamed to serve a government whose Members of Parliament allegedly attack police officers on the streets.

Addressing the media over an incident in which National People’s Power (NPP) MP Shantha Padma Kumara is accused of assaulting a police officer, Rajapaksa said the current IGP is not acting as the country’s police chief but as the “IGP of the NPP government.”

He claimed that such incidents have created a situation where police officers are hesitant to carry out their duties independently, fearing political pressure and reprisals.

Rajapaksa further alleged that MPs who once accused the Rajapaksa family of involvement in drug-related activities are now linked to the cultivation of cannabis. He said police officers who raided a cannabis plantation allegedly owned by a NPP government MP have faced harassment, including the transfer of one officer involved in the raid.

According to Rajapaksa, the same MP later attacked another police officer on the road after the raid. 

He further accused the government of suppressing investigations into a car accident involving former Speaker Ashoka Ranwala by transferring officers who were conducting the inquiry.

The SLPP MP alleged that political power is being used to interfere with law enforcement and questioned the conduct of the IGP in remaining silent over such incidents. (Newswire)

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Extreme weather : IGP Special Operations Unit established to assist public https://www.newswire.lk/2025/11/29/extreme-weather-igp-special-operations-unit-established-to-assist-public/ Sat, 29 Nov 2025 05:16:18 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=212838

Sri Lanka Police has established the IGP Special Operations Unit to provide information on the Emergency Disaster Situation. According toContinue Reading

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Sri Lanka Police has established the IGP Special Operations Unit to provide information on the Emergency Disaster Situation.

According to the Police, due to the unexpected severe weather conditions impacting the island, numerous areas have experienced heavy rainfall, flooding, strong winds, and landslides. Evacuation notices have been issued to residents in several affected regions.

To ensure effective coordination during this emergency and to deliver essential assistance, an IGP Special Operations Unit has been set up at Police Headquarters under the direct supervision of the Inspector General of Police (IGP). 

Police officers at stations island wide have been organized into teams to respond promptly to disaster-related incidents within their respective jurisdictions. Disaster-response equipment such as boats and diving gear has also been prepared for immediate deployment.

The Sri Lanka Police, working in collaboration with the Tri-Forces and Disaster Management Centre officials, request the cooperation of the public in activities such as rescuing disaster victims, distributing relief, and ensuring security in affected areas.

The public can contact the IGP Special Operations Unit via the below Landline and Whatsapp Numbers for any assistance;

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Speaker, IGP urged to ensure MPs’ security at special Parliament meeting https://www.newswire.lk/2025/10/31/speaker-igp-urged-to-ensure-mps-security-at-special-parliament-meeting/ Fri, 31 Oct 2025 08:44:14 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=208745

A special discussion was held in Parliament today (31), chaired by Speaker Jagath Wickramaratne and with the participation of theContinue Reading

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A special discussion was held in Parliament today (31), chaired by Speaker Jagath Wickramaratne and with the participation of the Inspector General of Police (IGP) (Attorney) Priyantha Weerasooriya, and opposition Parliamentarians, during which the opposition MPs requested the Speaker to take necessary steps to provide security to them.

According to a Parliament statement, a group of party leaders representing the opposition, including Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, and several Members of Parliament, participated. 

In response, Speaker mentioned that all the requests for security made by MPs up to now have been forwarded to the IGP. He also stated that although a policy decision has been made by the government regarding the security of Members of Parliament, going beyond that, the IGP has been informed to carry out his duties regarding the requests received up to today, and that, accordingly, security has already been provided to the relevant MPs.

Furthermore, the Speaker also informed the IGP today about the requests made by the opposition MPs. Expressing his views, the IGP stated that he will take necessary steps to inform the President and the Minister of Public Security about these requests.

The Opposition MPs who participated thanked them and requested that, without allowing any hindrance to their political activities, necessary steps be taken first to provide security to all opposition MPs to maintain a safe environment, and then to obtain an objective analysis of the threats and to take future courses of action.

Commenting on the meeting, Chief Opposition Whip MP Gayantha Karunathilaka said IGP Priyantha Weerasooriya and Speaker Jagath Wickramaratne gave positive responses during the talks held on the security needs of the public and Parliamentarians. 

Speaking to reporters, MP Gayantha Karunathilaka said the meeting was organized after opposition MPs had previously requested the Speaker for a meeting to discuss the security of public representatives due to the current circumstances in the country.

“A discussion was held today between the IGP and several opposition MPs, including the Opposition Leader. The discussion focused on the current state of the country, while the opposition highlighted the security of the public, public representatives, and state officials. Both the Speaker and the IGP gave positive responses,” he said. 

MP Gayantha Karunathilaka expressed hope that they will provide a reasonable response with regard to the matter. (Newswire)

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IGP files complaint with CID against Senior DIG – Report https://www.newswire.lk/2025/10/29/igp-files-complaint-with-cid-against-senior-dig-report/ Wed, 29 Oct 2025 07:48:24 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=208435

According to media reports, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Priyantha Weerasooriya has lodged a complaint with the Criminal Investigation DepartmentContinue Reading

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According to media reports, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Priyantha Weerasooriya has lodged a complaint with the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and the National Police Commission against a Senior Deputy Inspector General of Police (SDIG).

Reports said the IGP has requested disciplinary action and a transfer for the senior officer, who is alleged to have leaked confidential internal documents and false information about top police officials to social media.

An audio clip said to involve the SDIG and a social media activist from Kurunegala has reportedly been submitted to the Police Commission as evidence. The CID has recorded statements from both the activist and the IGP, while the senior officer in question is expected to be summoned for questioning. (Newswire)

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Jagath Withana denies underworld links, to sue IGP over remarks https://www.newswire.lk/2025/10/27/jagath-withana-denies-underworld-links-to-sue-igp-over-remarks/ Mon, 27 Oct 2025 07:03:50 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=208124

Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP Jagath Withana says he will take legal action against Inspector General of Police (IGP) C.D.Continue Reading

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Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP Jagath Withana says he will take legal action against Inspector General of Police (IGP) C.D. Priyantha Weerasooriya over what he described as false and damaging allegations linking him to organised crime.

Responding to the IGP’s statement that the threat to his life was connected to dealings with individuals involved in illegal businesses, MP Withana said the claim was baseless and intended to discredit him.

“I have no connection with the underworld. I have engaged in business legally since 1989. I have never been involved in any illegal activity,” the MP told the media today.

Withana further alleged that the IGP was angered by the fact that he had obtained police protection through the intervention of the Speaker after raising concerns in Parliament earlier this week.

He accused the IGP of attempting to create animosity between him and underworld groups, thereby putting his life in greater danger.

“I will take legal action against the IGP for these irresponsible and malicious remarks,” he added.

Earlier, IGP Weerasooriya told reporters that the threats to the MP were not politically motivated but related to his alleged associations with people engaged in criminal networks. (Newswire)

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Makandure Madush’s wife seeks probe into his death in custody https://www.newswire.lk/2025/09/10/makandure-madushs-wife-seeks-probe-into-his-death-in-custody/ Wed, 10 Sep 2025 10:06:40 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=202572

The wife of the late underworld figure ‘Makandure Madush’ has submitted a letter to IGP Priyantha Weerasooriya, calling for anContinue Reading

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The wife of the late underworld figure ‘Makandure Madush’ has submitted a letter to IGP Priyantha Weerasooriya, calling for an investigation into her husband’s death. 

Speaking to the media, the woman said that there is suspicion over his death while in Police custody.

“It wouldn’t have mattered if he had been sentenced by the court and hanged. But it is an incident where he was murdered on the road like an animal. At the time, they said the other underworld gang’s motorcycle was found. But we have not been informed of the incident or any suspects involved yet,” she said. 

Stating that it is 05 years since the incident, Makandure Madush’s wife said she has approached the IGP and expects justice from the authorities. 

She further raised suspicion on whether the death had taken place due to his association with certain persons, which had been largely discussed in society at the time of the incident. 

Makandure Madush’s wife added that she hopes the current government will enforce the law in this regard. (Newswire)

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JVP- FSP office issue : FSP demands answers from IGP https://www.newswire.lk/2025/09/04/jvp-fsp-office-issue-fsp-demands-answers-from-igp/ Thu, 04 Sep 2025 11:21:23 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=201807

The Frontline Socialist Party (FSP) has requested the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to provide information on the incident onContinue Reading

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The Frontline Socialist Party (FSP) has requested the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to provide information on the incident on Tuesday (02 Sept) in which a group of NPP and JVP members had forcibly entered its Gampaha District Office.

Filing a Right to Information (RT) request, FSP Propaganda Secretary, Duminda Nagamuwa, sought information from IGP Priyantha Weerasooriya. 

In a letter to the IGP, Duminda Nagamuwa raised 16 questions regarding the Police force’s actions related to the incident. (Newswire)

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Ranil court protest : Police to initiate legal action against protesters https://www.newswire.lk/2025/08/29/ranil-court-protest-police-to-initiate-legal-action-against-protesters/ Fri, 29 Aug 2025 05:34:00 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=200899

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Priyantha Weerasooriya says that the protest that was staged near the Fort Magistrate’s Court duringContinue Reading

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Inspector General of Police (IGP) Priyantha Weerasooriya says that the protest that was staged near the Fort Magistrate’s Court during former President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s court hearing this week is deemed contempt of court. 

Addressing the media yesterday, IGP Weerasooriya said that this was pointed out by the relevant magistrate during the court proceedings, as well.

He further said that a probe has been launched into the protest and that a court order has been issued in this regard.

“The process to identify those who had planned the protest is underway. A Police officer was injured due to a bottle being thrown by a protester. The suspect was arrested. We require some time, as we need to identify suspects through photographs and videos. You cannot protest asking for bail, it is considered contempt of court,” he said. 

IGP Priyantha Weerasooriya added that an investigation will be conducted into the protest, after which legal action will be initiated. (Newswire/ Image- AFP)

 

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New IGP meets President AKD https://www.newswire.lk/2025/08/15/new-igp-meets-president-akd/ Fri, 15 Aug 2025 12:36:37 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=199143

Newly appointed Inspector General of Police, Priyantha Weerasooriya, called on President Anura Kumara Dissanayake at the Presidential Secretariat today (15).Continue Reading

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Newly appointed Inspector General of Police, Priyantha Weerasooriya, called on President Anura Kumara Dissanayake at the Presidential Secretariat today (15).

According to the President’s Office, the President extended his best wishes to the new IGP, who, in turn, presented a commemorative gift to the President.

Priyantha Weerasooriya becomes the 37th IGP of Sri Lanka. 

He is also the first IGP to have risen through all three ranks, Police Constable, Sub-Inspector, and Assistant Superintendent, before being appointed to the top post. (Newswire)

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New IGP vows tougher laws to combat crime and drugs https://www.newswire.lk/2025/08/14/new-igp-vows-tougher-laws-to-combat-crime-and-drugs/ Thu, 14 Aug 2025 06:18:30 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=198949

Newly appointed Inspector General of Police (IGP) Priyantha Weerasooriya says measures are being taken to tighten the laws to maintainContinue Reading

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Newly appointed Inspector General of Police (IGP) Priyantha Weerasooriya says measures are being taken to tighten the laws to maintain law and order in Sri Lanka. 

Speaking to the media, after having assumed duties today, IGP Weerasooriya said that the President, Justice Minister and Minister of Public Security have been informed that special raids to curb drug and crime activities cannot be continued under the existing laws.

“As such, we are formulating laws to address these concerns. New laws are required to deal with people who are unable to refrain from engaging in crimes and corruption. We have received the utmost support of the international community, and steps are being taken to utilize their assistance and strengthen ties,” he said.  

IGP Weerasooriya further said that the shortcomings in the existing laws are being addressed to further strengthen the operations conducted to curb crimes and drug-related activities, including the increased shooting incidents in Sri Lanka. 

“There are some people who have fled and have sought refuge overseas who are behind these crimes and drug activities. They operate through their associates in Sri Lanka. There are some who had deserted the armed forces, and some even from the Police force who are involved in drug activities. We are taking steps to address all of this,” he said. 

IGP Weerasooriya said the first step will commence with cleansing the Police force, after which focus will be turned to society. 

Commenting on the circulation of weapons in society, he acknowledged that a large number of firearms are currently in the hands of ordinary citizens. 

“These include weapons from the tri-forces, weapons that belonged to the LTTE, weapons stolen from the armed forces, and those that have been taken from the Police Force. Investigations are underway into the weapons linked to the Police Department,” he said. 

The new IGP said that disciplinary and legal action will be initiated against Police officers who are found to be linked to crimes and drug activities, adding that if found guilty, they will be suspended from duty. (Newswire)

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Priyantha Weerasooriya appointed IGP https://www.newswire.lk/2025/08/13/priyantha-weerasooriya-appointed-igp/ Wed, 13 Aug 2025 10:18:22 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=198860

Newly appointed Inspector General of Police (IGP), Priyantha Weerasooriya, received his letter of appointment from the Secretary to the President,Continue Reading

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Newly appointed Inspector General of Police (IGP), Priyantha Weerasooriya, received his letter of appointment from the Secretary to the President, Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, at the Presidential Secretariat today.

Priyantha Weerasooriya was appointed as the 37th Inspector General of Police by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. 

This appointment has been made with the approval of the Constitutional Council, per Article 61 E (b) of the Constitution of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka. 

Priyantha Weerasooriya is the first IGP to have progressed through all three key ranks, Police Constable, Deputy Superintendent of Police and Assistant Superintendent of Police, before assuming the top position. (Newswire)

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New WhatsApp number to directly contact IGP to report crimes https://www.newswire.lk/2025/08/13/new-whatsapp-number-to-directly-contact-igp-to-report-crimes/ Wed, 13 Aug 2025 06:42:21 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=198815

The Sri Lanka Police has introduced a new WhatsApp hotline for the public to directly contact IGP Priyantha Weerasooriya regardingContinue Reading

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The Sri Lanka Police has introduced a new WhatsApp hotline for the public to directly contact IGP Priyantha Weerasooriya regarding crimes and various other public issues.

According to the Police, the public can contact the IGP via the WhatsApp phone number, 071-8598888, from today.

The public has been advised that they may only use this new WhatsApp phone number to send text messages, videos, and photos directly to the IGP, but making phone calls to the respective number is not permitted.

The Police further said this facility could be used to report any information related to crimes and other issues they may encounter. (Newswire)

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From Constable to IGP : Who is Priyantha Weerasooriya? https://www.newswire.lk/2025/08/12/from-constable-to-igp-who-is-priyantha-weerasooriya/ Tue, 12 Aug 2025 12:21:15 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=198737

Senior Deputy Inspector General Priyantha Weerasooriya, a veteran of the Sri Lanka Police with a career spanning 36-years, was appointedContinue Reading

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Senior Deputy Inspector General Priyantha Weerasooriya, a veteran of the Sri Lanka Police with a career spanning 36-years, was appointed Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP) in September 2024, becoming the first officer in the 158-year history of the force to rise from the rank of Police Constable to its top position.

Early Career

Weerasooriya was born in Dodangoda in 1969 and joined the police force as a constable in 1988 at age 19. He served in the Police Special Task Force, traffic, and crime divisions during the late 1980s insurgency. In 1992, he was promoted to sub inspector and posted to stations in Maradana, Vavuniya, and Kompannaveediya.

While serving, he earned a law degree from the University of Colombo, qualified as an attorney, and in 1999 was promoted to assistant superintendent of police through the direct-entry examination. He also completed a bachelor’s degree in business administration and later a master’s degree in law.

Promotions and Assignments
•⁠ ⁠1988: Joined as constable; served in STF and traffic/crime divisions.
•⁠ ⁠1992: Promoted to sub inspector; postings in Colombo and conflict-affected Vavuniya.
•⁠ ⁠1999: Promoted to assistant superintendent after qualifying as an attorney.
•⁠ ⁠2007: Promoted to superintendent; appointed director of Police Legal and Logistics Division.
•⁠ ⁠2007–2010: Served in United Nations peacekeeping missions in East Timor and Haiti.
•⁠ ⁠2016: Promoted to deputy inspector general; led Police Logistics Division until 2020.
•⁠ ⁠2020: Promoted to senior deputy inspector general; headed Strategic Management, Crime and Traffic Division.
•⁠ ⁠2024: Senior DIG for North Central Province; appointed Acting IGP on Sept. 26, 2024, following the suspension of Deshabandu Tennakoon.

Weerasooriya has received commendations from 10 former IGPs for service performance.

Operational Focus

As Acting IGP, Weerasooriya has led operations against organized crime, reporting in February 2025 that police had identified 58 criminal gangs and resolved all 17 shooting cases reported that year. He strengthened cooperation with foreign law enforcement, resulting in the extradition of 19 suspects, and oversaw joint operations against drug trafficking.
In response to allegations of custodial torture, he suspended four officers pending indictment.

Reform Initiatives

Weerasooriya initiated internal reforms, including transferring officers based on misconduct reports, mandating drug testing for reinstatement after suspension, and publicly affirming the right of civilians to record police officers on duty. He has also raised concerns about officer health and advocated for salary adjustments.

Weerasooriya has also been involved in a dispute with the National Police Commission over transfer authority, which was referred to the Constitutional Council before a compromise was reached. He has said that restoring public confidence in the police requires internal accountability measures and depoliticization. (Newswire)

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