Learn how Priyantha Weerasooriya climbed from constable to IGP—the first in Sri Lanka’s police history
When we think of leadership in law enforcement, many imagine individuals who entered the system with privileged backgrounds or strong political connections. However, the story of Priyantha Weerasooriya, Sri Lanka’s newly appointed Inspector General of Police (IGP), challenges that belief and proves that discipline, hard work, and education can pave the way for greatness. His journey is unique because he became the first-ever police constable in Sri Lankan history to rise to the very top of the police hierarchy.
This achievement is more than just a personal milestone; it is a reminder to every officer, no matter where they begin, that the path to success is open for those who refuse to give up. Priyantha Weerasooriya’s rise to IGP has already begun to inspire thousands of young officers and students across the nation, who now see in him a living example that determination can break barriers.
Early Days and Humble Beginnings
Weerasooriya’s journey started from a modest background. Joining the police force as a constable, he entered the service at the very lowest rank, where tasks were often difficult, physically demanding, and sometimes thankless. Unlike senior recruits who entered as gazetted officers, constables had fewer opportunities for promotions and leadership roles. Many spent decades without reaching higher positions.
But Priyantha Weerasooriya was different. Even at the beginning of his career, he displayed strong discipline, honesty, and a thirst for learning. While carrying out his duties as a constable, he continued to focus on education, developing skills that later helped him rise through the ranks. His commitment to personal growth showed his colleagues that success comes not only from physical effort but also from continuous learning and self-discipline.
Education as the Turning Point
What set Weerasooriya apart from many of his peers was his dedication to education. He realized early in his career that academic knowledge could give him the edge to move forward in a system where promotions were often slow. He pursued studies while working full-time in the police force, a task that required extreme commitment and time management.
Education gave him confidence, expanded his leadership skills, and helped him make smarter decisions in his service. It became his foundation for climbing the ranks, step by step. From constable, he advanced to sub-inspector, then to assistant superintendent, and eventually into senior roles that required both intellect and leadership. His story highlights that education is not a privilege but a tool of empowerment, even for those starting from the bottom.
Higher Education Achievements
Unlike many officers who stop after their law degree, Priyantha kept studying. His academic record includes:
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LL.B. (University of Colombo)
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Masters in Law (KDU)
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MBA (University of Colombo)
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Diplomas in Diplomacy, Construction Management, Procurement, and English for Professionals
His commitment to learning reflects his belief that education is wings—it helps one fly over any obstacle.
Rising Through the Ranks with Discipline
Priyantha Weerasooriya’s promotions were not handed to him overnight. They were the result of years of service, discipline, and determination. At every stage, he proved himself capable of handling responsibilities, leading teams, and earning the respect of both his seniors and juniors.
Many officers in Sri Lanka face challenges of political interference or favoritism, but Weerasooriya’s steady climb through the ranks showed that consistent effort and discipline can still open doors. His leadership style emphasized fairness, accountability, and respect, qualities that earned him trust among the police force and the wider public.
Climbing the Ranks
After completing his LL.B. in 1997, he rose steadily in the police hierarchy:
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1992 – Promoted to Sub-Inspector
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1999 – Appointed Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP)
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2007 – Promoted to Superintendent of Police
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2016 – Became Deputy Inspector General (DIG)
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2020 – Promoted to Senior DIG
Becoming the First Constable to IGP
In 2025, history was made when Priyantha Weerasooriya was appointed as Inspector General of Police. This moment was more than just a professional victory—it was a symbol of hope for thousands of police constables across the country. For the first time in history, someone who began as a constable had reached the highest seat in Sri Lanka’s police force.
This achievement shattered traditional barriers and created a new pathway of possibilities. Young constables now see a leader who once walked in their shoes, who knows their struggles, and who has shown that with perseverance, they too can dream of achieving greatness.
Leadership Roles in the Police
Throughout his career, he held significant leadership positions:
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Director of Legal and Logistics
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Chief of Police Logistics Division
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Senior DIG in charge of Crime and Traffic
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Election oversight during 2019 Presidential and 2020 General Elections
These roles tested his ability to balance discipline, law enforcement, and public trust.
Symbol of Hope and Inspiration
Today, Priyantha Weerasooriya’s story resonates beyond the police department. It has become a tale of hope for the entire country. His journey shows that no matter where you start in life, dedication and discipline can take you to the top. Students, professionals, and even ordinary citizens are inspired by his example, understanding that success does not depend solely on privilege or power but on determination and effort.
For the police service, his appointment represents a fresh beginning—one that emphasizes merit, hard work, and fairness. Officers at every rank now have reason to believe that their service and commitment can be recognized and rewarded, regardless of where they began.
Challenges Ahead as IGP
Now, as IGP, Priyantha faces serious challenges:
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Police corruption and misconduct
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Organized crime infiltration
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Public distrust of law enforcement
The police force has often been accused of serving political interests rather than public safety. Priyantha’s leadership will be tested in rebuilding credibility.
Vision for the Police Force
At his appointment, Priyantha promised to:
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Restore discipline and accountability
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Build a safe, crime-free environment
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Uphold the honor of the police uniform
His goal is not just to lead the police but to transform it into a trusted institution.
Lessons from His Journey
Priyantha’s story teaches us powerful lessons:
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Perseverance pays off – never stop learning.
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Education is the great equalizer – it breaks social and regional barriers.
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Humble beginnings don’t define you – your choices do.
He is not just Sri Lanka’s IGP; he is a symbol of hope for every child who dreams of rising above hardship.
The rise of Priyantha Weerasooriya from a humble constable to the Inspector General of Police is more than just an individual achievement—it is a national story of perseverance. His journey highlights the power of education, the importance of discipline, and the strength of hope.
As Sri Lanka welcomes this historic moment, his life reminds us that leadership is not about privilege but about perseverance. Priyantha Weerasooriya stands as a shining example that dreams, when combined with determination, can indeed become reality.