Ministry felicitates policemen held by LTTE

Nadira Gunatilleke

COLOMBO: “Arrangements will be made to recognise the services of police officers of the National Child Protection Authority Special Police Unit who were in LTTE custody”, Child Development and Women’s Empowerment Minister Sumedha G. Jayasena said.

The Minister at a ceremony to felicitate these three officers at the NCPA auditorium yesterday said she will take steps to offer them due promotions and nation’s honour.

‘The assistance extended to their families during this time should be appreciated.

The NCPA was at the receiving end of various criticisms during the recent past.

There were certain shortcomings, she said.

“I hope the NCPA will overcome all the obstacles and start to serve the nation’s children with vigour and fortitude under the new Chairman,” the Minister said. NCPA Chairman Jagath Wellawaththa said he understood the service rendered by the NCPA officers towards the well-being of nation’s children.

These police officers’ service should be appreciatesd in a more distinguished way.

SI Bandujeewa Bopitiya explained in tears how he became helpless and felt sad when his little daughter asked him when he is coming home during an arranged meeting with his family.

“I myself did not know whether I get a chance to go home ever again,” he said.

NCPA Deputy Chairman, Sumana Ariyadasa, Probation and Child Care Services Commissioner Sarath Abeygunawardena, OIC, Special Police Unit, Wijesinghe and several others were present.