April 08, Colombo (LNW): President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has called for a fundamental reimagining of Sri Lanka’s policing ethos, stressing that meaningful transformation within the law enforcement sector is critical to reinforcing public confidence and preserving the rule of law.

Addressing the graduation ceremony of the 82nd intake of the Special Task Force (STF) at the Katukurunda training facility in Kalutara, the President underscored the urgency of institutional reform.

He acknowledged the prevailing public disillusionment with many sectors of governance and emphasised that citizens had already initiated political change at the ballot box.

However, he warned that political turnover alone would not suffice to rescue the nation from systemic decay.

In his remarks to the newly commissioned STF personnel, President Dissanayake implored them to take pride in their service, not simply as a job but as a moral responsibility.

He urged them to rise above past failures, emphasising that a renewed sense of professionalism and ethical commitment would be pivotal in ensuring public safety, dismantling organised crime networks, and curbing the narcotics trade.

The President made a pointed reference to the widespread institutional breakdown in recent years, asserting that rebuilding national integrity required a collective effort across the civil service, including law enforcement.

He reminded the officers that their daily conduct would define the image of the police in the eyes of the public, and that the younger generation must shoulder the challenge of guiding the nation forward.

As part of the ceremonial proceedings, 118 newly recruited Sub-Inspectors and 231 Probationary Constables completed their training and formally entered the police service.

Certificates and honours were presented by President Dissanayake to those who had demonstrated excellence throughout the rigorous training process.

In a symbolic moment, the President also received a commemorative memento to mark his participation as the Chief Guest. The event included an elaborate tactical demonstration staged by STF officers, simulating combat scenarios to showcase their preparedness and specialised capabilities.

Founded in 1983 under the guiding motto “Victory is Certain,” the Special Task Force has evolved into one of Sri Lanka’s most respected elite units. In addition to counter-narcotics and crime suppression, the STF plays a critical role in safeguarding dignitaries and responding to national emergencies.

In his closing remarks, President Dissanayake praised the dedication of the STF during times of national distress, reaffirming that the country’s progress hinges not merely on reform at the top, but on dedicated service across every level of public administration.

The ceremony was attended by a host of senior figures, including the Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs Ananda Wijepala, Minister of Health and Mass Media Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, Deputy Minister of Public Security Sunil Watagala, and Acting Inspector General of Police Priyantha Weerasooriya. Parents and families of the graduating officers, alongside senior police personnel, were also present at the occasion.