Police officers warned over refusal to accept digital insurance cards

Police officers who refuse to accept legally recognised digital insurance cards and inconvenience motorists could face disciplinary action, Deputy Inspector General of Traffic Control and Road Safety W. P. J. Senadheera said on Thursday.

Speaking at a media briefing, Senadheera said several officers attached to the Padukka and Gampaha police stations had reportedly refused to accept digital insurance cards.

He said the Inspector General of Police had informed all police stations in May that digital insurance cards issued by 14 insurers approved by the Insurance Regulatory Commission must be accepted.

Senadheera said the cards were legally recognised under the Electronic Transactions Act No. 19 of 2006.

Police officers can also verify insurance coverage by dialling *1338#, sending an SMS to 1338 or calling the 1338 hotline.

The Police Department has instructed officers-in-charge at all 607 police stations to brief lower-ranking officers again on the procedure.

Motorists who encounter problems can complain to the nearest police station or contact the Traffic Headquarters hotline on 070 475 5600.

Senadheera said officers who disregard the instructions could face strict disciplinary action.