‘No Crime Will Be Allowed to Fade Away with Time’
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake emphasized that no crime will be allowed to disappear with the passage of time, and that time will never be an obstacle to bringing criminals to justice before the law.
The President stressed that the present government is committed to ensuring that punishment for crimes will be carried out irrespective of when or where the crime was committed.
The President made these remarks while addressing the 159th Police Day celebrations held yesterday (03) at the Police Grounds in Thimbirigasyaya, under the theme “Uphold the Law – Value Peace.”
The President noted that the Police Department bears a significant responsibility in addressing today’s pressing social challenges, particularly the drug menace and crimes committed with illegal firearms. He assured that the government will take steps to protect police officers who fulfil their duties diligently, while also encouraging them to carry out their responsibilities without fear.
The President also drew attention to the issues currently faced by police officers and the Sri Lanka Police Department. He emphasized the government’s commitment to increasing the number of police officers, improving salaries and allowances and building a modern Police Department equipped with advanced technological knowledge.
The appointment of Sir G.W.R. Campbell as the first Inspector General of Police on September 3, 1866, is regarded as the official beginning of the Sri Lanka Police.
Over the past 159 years, the police service has been closely connected with Sri Lankan society. On this significant day, tribute is paid with pride to all police officers who sacrificed their lives while performing their duties, as well as to those who, after years of dedicated service, have retired.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who attended the 159th Police Day commemoration ceremony, was warmly received with full honours and the President also inspected the ceremonial parade of the Police.
At the event, President Dissanayake also presented ‘President’s Police Gallantry Medals’ to police officers who brought honour to the Sri Lanka Police and demonstrated exceptional bravery in the line of duty.