Nearly 1,000 police officers sent for overseas training in two years

Nearly 1,000 Sri Lankan police officers have received overseas training during the past two years, while the government is preparing a new system to expand foreign training opportunities across all ranks, Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala said.

Speaking at the 85th Police Athletics Meet, Wijepala said the proposed system would allow officers from junior to senior levels to receive foreign training without distinction based on rank.

He said the government was also preparing a wider programme to professionalise the police service, including the recruitment of 10,000 additional officers next year.

All promotions delayed over the past five years would be completed this year under systems based on seniority, performance and efficiency bar examinations, he said.

The ministry was also developing a more structured transfer system, including provisions to allow officers, where possible, to be posted closer to their homes.

Wijepala said Cabinet approval had been granted to introduce a special risk allowance for police officers through the 2027 Budget.

Plans were also under way to provide electric motorcycles, improve infrastructure and redesign the police uniform as part of efforts to modernise the service.

He said the government’s objective was to build a more professional police service and improve the skills and working conditions of officers.