July 20, Colombo (LNW): The funeral of former Inspector General of Police C.D. Wickramaratne will take place this afternoon (20) at the Borella General Cemetery, where he will be accorded full police honours in recognition of his decades of service to the Sri Lanka Police.
Wickramaratne, who served as the country’s 35th Inspector General of Police, passed away at the age of 63. His death has prompted an ongoing investigation as authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Beginning his policing career in 1986, Wickramaratne steadily rose through the ranks before assuming the role of Acting Inspector General of Police in 2019. His appointment followed the suspension of then IGP Pujith Jayasundara in the wake of the Easter Sunday terror attacks. He was formally confirmed as Inspector General of Police on 27 November 2020.
Although he was scheduled to retire on 25 March 2023, his term was extended several times by then President Ranil Wickremesinghe until a successor was appointed. As a result, Wickramaratne remained at the helm of the Police Department for almost eight months beyond his original retirement date, finally stepping down on 23 November 2023.
Police said Wickramaratne died on Friday after sustaining a gunshot wound. Preliminary investigations suggest the incident may have been a suicide, with investigators alleging that the firearm involved had been issued to one of his security officers.
Following the post-mortem examination conducted by the Judicial Medical Officer at Colombo East Hospital, an open verdict was returned. The Judicial Medical Officer also directed that biological samples be submitted to the Government Analyst for further examination to assist the inquiry.
Investigations are continuing under the Western Province South Crime Division and the Malabe Police. The firearm believed to have been used has been forwarded to the Government Analyst for forensic testing, while statements have been obtained from Wickramaratne’s wife and three members of his security detail as part of the ongoing investigation.
Authorities have indicated that further findings will be released once the forensic examinations and investigative procedures have been completed.
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