Only 30 percent of policemen in good health: Acting IGP

Only 30 percent of police officers are currently in good physical health, while 20 percent to 40 percent are affected by various non-communicable diseases, Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP) Priyantha Weerasooriya revealed. 

Speaking at an event in the Ratnapura District to distribute school supplies to children of police personnel, the Acting IGP also stated that another 30 percent of officers have not yet undergone medical examinations. 
“Some officers are also burdened by personal and work-related issues, which further contribute to their physical and mental stress,” he added.  
Highlighting the need for change, he stressed the importance of improving the overall wellbeing and efficiency of police officers. “We are working to make police duties more professional and productive. 
Our goal is to position the police service as a respected and high-performing profession, and to ensure officers are recognized and fairly compensated for their efforts.”  
He also addressed the ongoing issue of low pay within the police force. “Police officers currently earn very modest salaries. We have brought this to the attention of the President, and steps are now underway to introduce a new salary structure in the coming year,” he said.