Acting Inspector General of Police, Priyantha Weerasooriya, has launched an internal clean up of the Sri Lankan Police to restore public trust and strengthen the force’s credibility. In a recent press briefing, the Acting IGP announced that organizational changes are underway, as part of a wider initiative to address longstanding concerns over corruption, misconduct, and a lack of accountability within the police force.
Corruption Perceptions
The credibility of the Sri Lankan police force has been under scrutiny for years. Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) consistently places the country in the lower half of its rankings, reflecting widespread concerns over public sector corruption. Criticisms of the police have also centered around allegations of abuse of power, human rights violations, and impunity for officers involved in criminal activities. These issues have severely undermined public trust in the police, contributing to an overall negative perception of law enforcement.
To address these challenges, the Acting IGP has initiated a series of reforms aimed at improving transparency, accountability, and professionalism within the police. One of the key steps in this reform effort involves a mass transfer of 17 officers-in-charge (OICs) from police stations in the Western Province, including several from key police stations in the greater Colombo area.
“intelligence reports”
These transfers, as reported by the Sunday Times, are based on “intelligence reports” that suggest alleged misconduct by the OICs. However, it is important to note that there have been no formal disciplinary inquiries or criminal proceedings related to the allegations mentioned in the reports. The transfers are being made on a “supernumerary basis,” meaning the officers will be reassigned to normal duties. However, the National Police Commission (NPC), which oversees such transfers, has requested further clarification from the Acting IGP regarding the reasons behind these moves.
The NPC has also raised concerns about the qualifications of the officers proposed as replacements for the transferred OICs. These replacements are reportedly of lower rank and may not have the necessary experience or qualifications to hold such significant posts. This has led to questions about the proper procedures being followed in the reorganization process.
The 21st Amendment to the Constitution grants the NPC wide-ranging powers over police appointments, promotions, transfers, disciplinary control, and dismissals, with the goal of depoliticizing the police force. The NPC, which functions as an independent oversight body, plays a crucial role in ensuring transparency and accountability within the police.
