Reflections on the Constitution- Part-5

by Basil Fernando

Robberies- Police and 18th Amendment

' People see police as those who are used by the powerful persons for bad purposes, such as rigging elections and abuse political opponents. In turn, people also see that police officers from top to bottom of being corrupt. '

1. October 11/2010- Anuradhapura                           - Rs. 11,00,000 ( Rs 1.1 million )
2. October 08/2010- Nugegoda                                 - Rs.14,00,000 Rs.( Rs 1.4 million )
3. October 05/2010- Rawathwaththa                          - Rs.100,000 Hundredrd Thousand only
4. October 03/2010- Paliyagoda Wanawasala            -Rs.70,000.000 ( Rs. 70 millions )

(October 12, Hong Kong, Sri Lanka Guardian) The above mentioned incidents are just a few of the robberies reported in the news papers in the month of October. Besides these, almost daily stories of robberies are being heard from all parts of the country. What is more revealing is that several of the published reports mention that police officers of various ranks are involved in these alleged robberies. In one instance, an ASP was caught with eight other police officers when they tried to rob a Buddhist temple in search of buried treasures.

The engagement of police officers in robberies no longer surprises any Sri Lankan. The comments of ordinary citizens listening to such reports are not one of surprise or shock but instead, cynical remarks. This a reflection that the people do not expect anything better.

This loss of expectations relating to law enforcement officers reflects a dangerous situation. Such loss of faith betrays bitterness and helplessness among citizens.

Some time earlier, there was some hope, even though very limited, of some kind of reform of police through the 17th Amendment to the constitution that has been removed by the 18th amendment.

People see police as those who are used by the powerful persons for bad purposes, such as rigging elections and abuse political opponents. In turn, people also see that police officers from top to bottom of being corrupt. The 18th Amendment is a guarantee for the "loyal" officers to have their promotions. Merit is no longer a matter of concern. Impunity is guaranteed, even if they engage in causing forced disappearances, extra-judicial killings and torture. That explains why people have no expectations about police officers being able to deal with robberies and other crimes.

This situation is a direct result of the 1978 constitution which destroyed the morale within the police service.

What does this mean for the future? What kind of future is the country heading towards?