Retirement notice by IGP Dr Mahinda Balasuriya

IGP Dr Mahinda Balasuriya in a letter states: “Coinciding with me reaching 58 years which is due on the June 18, 2011, I have decided to voluntarily retire from the police service after 33 years in service.

“Since 1978 I have had the pleasure of serving the motherland across many geographies, at different capacities, acquiring a wealth of experience both as a public servant and as a human being.

“Due to the unpleasant incidents that occurred at Katunayake EPZ, that is due to Police officers not being able to carry-out orders set by myself at Katunayake on 30.05.2011, I have decided to voluntarily retire despite being able to serve for another 2 years in the capacity of Inspector General of Police.

“I would like to express my total displeasure with regard to police action about the incident and I have taken the above decision to set an example to the Police, Public sector and Private sector.

“However I, would like to thank my subordinates in the police department which is 85,000 strong, for supporting me in my endeavour to build a “People friendly, professional, prestigious police service”. From the day that I assumed duties as Inspector General of Police I was pleased to have by my side a dedicated set of officers who, assisted me in overcoming numerous challenges to the state and the motherland ranging from terrorism to natural disasters. In line with my above vision I am pleased to inform the Sri Lankan public that I have been able to complete the following development projects during my tenure.

“Upgrading the Police service to the digital age through introduction of the 119 Police Emergency service, Tell IGP email correspondence system, Colombo city surveillance system.

“In order to take the Police service closer to the general public, the declaration of a public day every Friday enabling the public to meet myself and other senior officers directly in order to obtain solutions for their grievances at IGP’s office.

“Allocating a date to listen to the grievances of fellow police officers of all ranks, setting up the Police academy in Katana, establishment of Tamil, English and IT training centres for Police officers.

“Recruitment of Tamil youth from North and East to the Police service who could better serve the public overcoming ethnic and language barriers.

“I most respectfully honor the Maha Sangha and other religious leaders for guiding me in matters of public office in numerous occasions.

“I humbly pay my respect to His Excellency the President of the Democratic Socialist Republics of Sri Lanka and the Secretary of Defence for the excellent support and guidance extended to me during my tenure. Furthermore I would like to thank the Chief of Defense Staff, the Tri-Forces Commanders, the Director General of the Civil Defense Force and the entire public sector.

“I fondly remember the support extended to me by acting IGP N.K. Illangakoon Snr. DIG Administration and all other senior and junior members of the Police service including the civil staff.

“Also I would like to thank the citizens of Sri Lanka for the excellent co-operation extended to me and my fellow officers during my tenure as IGP.

Finally I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all journalists and media personnel for assisting me in carrying out my duties as the 32nd Inspector General of Police of Sri Lanka.