Laith Pathinayake, Priyantha Weerasuriya next in line for IGP

Following an interim order from the Supreme Court restraining Deshabandu Tennakoon from continuing as Inspector General of Police, the next contenders for the position based on seniority are Senior DIGs Laith Pathinayake, Priyantha Weerasuriya, and Nilantha Jayawardena.

However, Senior DIG Nilantha Jayawardena has been placed on compulsory leave by the National Police Commission last week amidst a disciplinary investigation related to the Easter Sunday terror attacks.

A senior officer said that Senior DIG P.P.S.M Dharmaratne from the Sabaragamuwa Province is also under consideration due to seniority.

With Jayawardena on leave, either Senior DIGs Pathinayake or Priyantha Weerasuriya are likely candidates for the role of acting IGP.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe will submit names to the Constitutional Council for the appointment of an acting IGP.

Currently, Priyantha Weerasuriya serves as Senior DIG in charge of the North Central Province, while Pathinayake is Senior DIG in the Central Province.

Earlier this year, Pathinayake was acquitted of charges related to the Easter Sunday attacks by a commission appointed by the National Police Commission.

Regarding the ongoing island-wide operation 'Yukthiya,' led by Deshabandu Tennakoon, the senior officer stated that the operation will continue unaffected by recent developments.

Deshabandu Tennakoon assumed office as the 36th Inspector General of Police on February 26 this year, amidst strong opposition from several civil organizations.