Remarks from the Minister of Internal Affairs Mr. Charles E. Fonseka on the occasion of Police Day
Police Day is a moment of reflection, not only spiritual but a reflection of you, as an individual, in assessing yourself as a Police Constable, irrespective of the rank you hold. The reflection that each of you needs to make is your own personal reflection, in assessing yourself. A constable has sharp eyes, ears and mind, accurate eye for detail. These traits remain with you throughout your career. This includes looking after your physical fitness and health as well as your demeanour. This matters in you moving forward. It is also a moment to understand and appreciate the important tasks you do every day.
I recognise the challenges you face today. Such as the fight against drugs, and it will be a long fight. But we also need to be conscious of the welfare of the victims of drugs, as law enforcement does not only enforce the law but also looks at the social aspect of the community. For instance, the Commissioner of Prisons works hard to rehabilitate the victims back into society. The Departments for families and Social Affairs are also Stakeholders in this noble effort. This illustrates a bigger picture of what law enforcement is about.
Crime is a fluid threat. Today we face more complicated crimes, in terms of Cyber –crimes, financial crimes, amongst fast communications, transfer of money through bit coins, and it is going to get worse as technology moves on. But, despite all those technologies, and other skills required, we still need the ‘constable’ in each and every one of you.
We need to look at communities and we need to re-inforce and engage with them. The community needs to trust you and see you working to help them. They need to see you as someone who can help, understand and solve their problems. They want you to reach their home fast, but getting there fast is one thing. You have to complete the work after you get there, as this is the way to earn their trust.
Everything you do requires co-ordination. A prime example is the Queens funeral service. The magnitude of the co-ordination is admirable and sets an example on how co-ordination results in success. We can apply the same principles even if we are dealing on a smaller scale.
Police Officers face difficult challenges every day. Your jobs can be dangerous, frustrating, even tedious at times, but regardless, law enforcement is a very rewarding career. As Police Officers, you have the opportunity to significantly improve the quality of life for the citizens of your community by keeping peace despite sometimes overwhelming odds.
Today we remember loved ones and brave officers who are not with us. I wish to express gratitude to all officers who put their lives on the line to maintain law and order and secure our communities. Thank you and happy Police Day!