Today is the 161st Police Heroes Commemoration Day

The 161st Police Heroes Commemoration Ceremony was held today under the patronage of Acting Inspector General of Police, Priyantha Weerasuriya. The ceremony saw the participation of a distinguished group, including retired IGPs and senior police officers, honoring the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

The commemoration marked a solemn occasion, reflecting on the tragic event of March 21, 1864, when a police constable lost his life during the operation to apprehend the notorious outlaw Utuwankande Saradiyal. This tragic loss remains the oldest source of commemoration for a police hero in the country, symbolized by a monument at the Utuwankanda intersection in Mawanella, which states that the constable died in the line of duty.

In line with the day's observances, floral tributes were paid to the Police War Heroes Monument located at the Kalutara South Police Station. Officers from all police stations in the Kalutara Police Division participated in the event, honoring the sacrifices of their fallen comrades.

Additionally, a separate commemoration ceremony took place in the Eastern Province, where floral tributes were offered at the police memorial in front of the Batticaloa District Senior Superintendent of Police’s office, acknowledging the contributions of police heroes in that region.

This ceremony serves as a reminder of the bravery and dedication of Sri Lanka's police force in ensuring the safety and security of the nation.