The National Police Commission (NPC) has firmly denied Acting Inspector General of Police Priyantha Weerasooriya’s accusations of interference regarding specific appointments, asserting its stance on the matter.
Tensions between the NPC and Acting IGP escalated last week when Weerasooriya alleged that the Commission was meddling in Police Department affairs. He claimed he lacked the authority to approve transfers, leaving him as merely an IGP in title.
Addressing these allegations, the NPC clarified its role and authority. It stated that out of approximately 80,000 Sri Lanka Police officers, it oversees appointments, promotions, transfers, and disciplinary measures for a limited group—607 HQIs/OICs and 813 State Notified Officers (including the Special Task Force), totaling around 1,420 officers.
Additionally, the NPC highlighted that all other officers’ appointments, promotions, and disciplinary actions have been formally delegated to the IGP in accordance with the Constitution. These officers, including the IGP, are expected to operate within the framework of existing laws, rules, and regulations, without NPC intervention.
Rejecting the Acting IGP’s allegations, the NPC reaffirmed that it does not interfere in internal police operations or hinder the IGP’s responsibilities. The Commission stressed that all its actions align with the Constitution and relevant legal provisions.
The current NPC has worked with two former IGPs and continues to collaborate with the present Acting IGP.
Regarding the specific dispute, the NPC stated that following Weerasooriya’s appointment, he proposed transfers for numerous senior officers—including 10 Senior DIGs, 14 DIGs, 60 SSPs, 13 SPs, 58 ASPs, and 239 OICs—between 27.09.2024 and 31.01.2025. After reviewing these requests, the NPC approved transfers for 8 Senior DIGs, 13 DIGs, 58 SSPs, 12 SPs, 56 ASPs, and 183 OICs.
However, the Commission noted that certain transfer requests lacked sufficient justification and were therefore not approved.
The NPC further pointed out that although many approved transfers were sanctioned, they had yet to be executed. The Commission has since inquired with the Acting IGP about the delay.
Additionally, the NPC addressed Weerasooriya’s assertion of seeking guidance from the Attorney General on Police OIC transfers. The Commission clarified that it had received no official notification on this matter. Given that the NPC holds authority over these appointments and disciplinary matters, it stated that the Acting IGP should have consulted the Commission directly.
The NPC also revealed that on 21.02.2024, the Acting IGP was officially informed about the possible constitutional crisis resulting from the non-implementation of specific NPC decisions. The Constitutional Council has also been briefed on the issue.
