Sri Lanka is set to introduce a new police uniform by mid-2027 as part of a broader initiative to modernize its law enforcement service. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake announced the plans, emphasizing that the change in attire will accompany wider reforms aimed at transforming the police force.
According to the President, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) has been directed to collaborate with a professional fashion design company to develop a uniform that meets the practical needs of contemporary policing. The redesigned attire will be tailored to accommodate equipment such as body cameras, batons, torches, and handcuffs, reflecting operational requirements in the modern era.
President Dissanayake described the uniform update as one component of a comprehensive programme intended to improve personnel management, infrastructure, technology, training, and working conditions within the police service. The initiative comes amidst plans to recruit 10,000 new police officers, alongside procurement of new vehicles and enhancement of police facilities.
Authorities and officials suggest that these changes are aimed not only at upgrading the force’s external appearance but also at fostering a cultural shift toward a more community-centric policing model. The public has expressed hope that the reforms will lead to a fundamental transformation, enabling the police to function as a truly people-oriented service.
While details on the timeline and specific design elements remain forthcoming, the government’s emphasis on integrating equipment support into the new uniform design signals a focus on operational efficiency and officer safety. Observers note that such modernization efforts have become increasingly important as police forces worldwide adapt to evolving security challenges and public expectations.
This development marks a significant step in Sri Lanka’s efforts to revitalize its police force, reflecting broader governmental priorities to enhance law enforcement capabilities and restore public trust.
