Today marks the 158th anniversary of Sri Lanka Police

Dedication to duty

September 3is a historic day for Sri Lanka, marking the 158th anniversary of the formal establishment of its Police Service. Although Sri Lanka’s police history is among the longest globally, modern policing traces back to Sir Robert Peel’s establishment of the Metropolitan Police in England in 1829, considered the world’s first formal police force. Sri Lanka’s Police Service was officially established in 1866 under Ordinance No. 16 of 1865.

Sr i Lanka’s Police Service was officially established in 1866 under Ordinance No. 16 of 1865

Formal police force

Prior to this formal establishment, the British informally set up a police system in Sri Lanka in 1795 to protect the Colombo harbour’s warehouses. The need for a more structured police service became apparent due to the limitations of the existing Police Vidhane system and growing public demand for a formal police force.  

Modern policing traces back to Sir Robert Peel’s establishment of the Metropolitan Police in England in 1829

 By 1832, Sri Lanka had an informal police service with the division of Colombo into 15 police zones, staffed by 10 sergeants, 5 constables, and 150 peons. Police stations were later established in Galle, Negombo, and Kandy. Lokubanda Dunuwila was appointed the first Sri Lankan Superintendent of Police in Kandy. After the 1865 Ordinance, G. W. R. Campbell became the first Inspector General of Police, with Sir Richard Aluwihare appointed as the first Sri Lankan Inspector General in 1947, marking a significant milestone in the history of Sri Lankan policing.  

Since its formal establishment, the Sri Lanka Police has become a leading institution for maintaining law and order   

The first recorded sacrifice by a police officer occurred on March 21, 1864, in Uthuwankanda, Mawanella. Officer Sabhan was killed while attempting to arrest a suspect, demonstrating the bravery and dedication of Sri Lanka’s police force.  

Leading institution

Since its formal establishment, the Sri Lanka Police has become a leading institution for maintaining law and order, with a proud history of service. On this special day, Sri Lanka Police honour the memory of 3,117 officers who have sacrificed their lives for public safety and the nation’s integrity.  

In addition, Police recognize the 2,598 officers who died during the three-decade war, and the 854 disabled officers who have retired, with 797 still serving despite their disabilities.  

As Sri Lanka Police celebrate the 158th Police Day with pride the sacrifices and dedication of all police officers who have served and continue to serve with honour.