Police Advisory, Civil Defence Committees to be set up

Chandrika Perera

Defence and Urban Development Ministry Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa directed the IGP to set up Police Advisory Committees and Civil Defence Committees covering each and every Police Station with immediate effect.

This was disclosed by IGP N. K. Ilangakoon when he presided over a ceremony to felicitate and grant cash rewards to a batch of 262 Police personnel who rendered heroic services in arresting criminals and busting crimes, and 18 civilian informants who assisted Police by providing vital information. The ceremony was held at the Colombo Crime Division yesterday.

Cash rewards totalling Rs 6,358,500 were awarded at this ceremony.

IGP Ilangakoon said the Police Department hoped to activate crime prevention and law enforcement in a more systematic manner this year. A strategy had been adopted to increase the crime resolution rate to 60 percent in 2013.

He said a programme to issue copies of NICs and passports instantly to the public, the moment the loss of such documents were reported to the Police would be implemented from next month for the convenience of the people.

The IGP said the enhancement of cash rewards given to Police officers on traffic duty from last year had worked towards a better and more efficient traffic unit.

Describing the motive behind the cash reward system for policemen, the IGP said it was a form of incentive for the police to render better and more efficient services. Moreover, more points would be added to those receiving cash rewards and special praise when they are considered for promotions in the cadre.

Incentives of this nature would also help expedite the solving of crimes and production of criminals and other suspects before Courts.

Cash rewards would also enable efficient officers to increase their monthly earnings. The IGP said the Police Department hoped to achieve seven main targets this year.

It hoped to eradicate the drug menace by increasing and accelerating raids on illicit liquor dens and drug dealers.DIG (Administrations) Gamini Navaratne and DIG (Crimes) Jayaweera also spoke.