Learn about Senior DIG Priyantha Weerasooriya’s remarkable journey from Police Constable to Acting Inspector General of Police.
Introduction
On September 27, Senior Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Priyantha Weerasooriya was appointed as the Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP) of Sri Lanka. This decision was made by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, under the constitutional powers granted to him. The official appointment letter was handed to Weerasooriya by the President’s Secretary, Dr. Nandika Kumanayake, at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo.
Priyantha Weerasooriya’s Professional Journey
Priyantha Weerasooriya’s journey in law enforcement is nothing short of remarkable. Starting his career as a Police Constable, he has spent 36 years serving in various capacities within the Sri Lankan police force. Over the years, he climbed the ranks steadily, showcasing his commitment, dedication, and expertise. From operational roles to middle and strategic management positions, his rise from Police Constable to Senior DIG is a rare achievement in the history of the Sri Lankan Police Service.
Education and Qualifications
A law enforcement professional with an extensive academic background, Priyantha Weerasooriya is well-equipped for his leadership role. He holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from the University of Colombo, a Bachelor of Business Administration in Human Resource Management, and a Master’s in Law (LLM) from General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University. Additionally, he has earned several diplomas, including one in Public Procurement and Contract Administration, a Diploma in Professional Diplomacy, and certifications in English for Effective Communication.
Significant Contributions to the Police Department
Throughout his career, Weerasooriya has made significant contributions to law enforcement in Sri Lanka. He held various key positions, such as the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) overseeing Crime and Traffic, as well as Director of Police Logistics. His strong leadership in these roles earned him 10 Inspector General of Police (IGP) commendation letters, which highlight his excellence and commitment to public service.
International Experience
In addition to his domestic responsibilities, Priyantha Weerasooriya has also gained international recognition for his work. He has participated in United Nations peacekeeping missions in East Timor and Haiti, where he contributed to restoring peace and order in these regions. His involvement in these missions underscores his capabilities in handling complex international law enforcement operations.
Current Role as Acting Inspector General of Police
Before his appointment as Acting IGP, Weerasooriya served as the Senior DIG in charge of the North Central Province. His role there involved overseeing critical law enforcement operations, ensuring public safety, and managing the police force in the region. Now, as the Acting IGP, his responsibilities have expanded, and he will be overseeing the entire police department. His appointment comes at a crucial time for the police force, as he is expected to implement strategic reforms and provide strong leadership.
Implications of the Appointment
The appointment of Priyantha Weerasooriya as Acting IGP holds significant importance for Sri Lanka’s law enforcement landscape. His rise from the lowest rank in the police force to its highest position is unprecedented in the 158-year history of the Sri Lankan Police Service. His leadership style, experience, and expertise in law enforcement are expected to drive positive changes within the police force, fostering greater professionalism and accountability.
Furthermore, Weerasooriya’s appointment is seen as a positive step toward strengthening the police force’s strategic management. His broad experience, from managing logistics to overseeing critical crime investigations, positions him well to tackle the complex challenges faced by the law enforcement sector.
Conclusion
Priyantha Weerasooriya’s appointment as Acting Inspector General of Police is a momentous occasion in the history of Sri Lanka’s police force. With a career spanning over three decades, marked by commendable service and outstanding leadership, Weerasooriya is poised to lead the force with integrity and professionalism. His journey from a Police Constable to the top position in law enforcement is an inspiration to many within the police department and beyond. As he steps into this new role, expectations are high for his contributions toward improving public safety and enhancing the effectiveness of law enforcement in Sri Lanka.
FAQs
- Who is the current Acting Inspector General of Police? Senior DIG Priyantha Weerasooriya is the current Acting IGP of Sri Lanka.
- What is Priyantha Weerasooriya’s educational background? He holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from the University of Colombo and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Human Resource Management, along with a Master’s in Law (LLM) from General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University.
- How did Priyantha Weerasooriya rise through the police ranks? Weerasooriya began his career as a Police Constable and gradually worked his way up through various roles to become the Senior DIG, and now the Acting IGP.
- What international experience does Priyantha Weerasooriya have? He has participated in United Nations peacekeeping missions in East Timor and Haiti, contributing to restoring peace and stability in these regions.
- What are Priyantha Weerasooriya’s responsibilities as Acting IGP? As Acting IGP, Weerasooriya is responsible for overseeing the entire Sri Lankan police force, ensuring law enforcement efficiency, and managing strategic reforms.
- What roles did Priyantha Weerasooriya hold before becoming Acting IGP?
Before his appointment as Acting IGP, Weerasooriya served as the Senior DIG for the North Central Province and held various other leadership roles, including DIG for Crime and Traffic and Director of Police Logistics. - How long has Priyantha Weerasooriya been in the police service?
Priyantha Weerasooriya has served in the Sri Lankan police force for 36 years, during which he has risen through the ranks from Police Constable to Senior DIG and now Acting IGP. - What commendations has Priyantha Weerasooriya received during his career?
Weerasooriya has been awarded 10 IGP commendation letters, recognizing his exemplary contributions to law enforcement in Sri Lanka. - What is the significance of Priyantha Weerasooriya’s appointment as Acting IGP?
His appointment is historically significant because he is the first officer to rise from the rank of Police Constable to the position of Acting IGP in the 158-year history of the Sri Lankan police service. - What challenges will Priyantha Weerasooriya face as Acting IGP?
As Acting IGP, Weerasooriya will face the challenge of improving public trust, ensuring accountability within the police force, and tackling key law enforcement issues in Sri Lanka, such as crime prevention and traffic management.