News Today: SSP Shani Abeysekera Returns to Police Service on a One-Year Contract

Former Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Shani Abeysekera has been reappointed to the Sri Lankan Police Service on a one-year contract, following approval from the Police Commission. Abeysekera, who retired three years ago, is expected to lead a new assets recovery unit. He is widely recognized for his investigative work in several high-profile criminal cases during his tenure.

As a former Director of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Abeysekera led investigations into the murder of rugby player Wasim Thajudeen, the abduction of 11 youths around Colombo, the murder of Bharatha Lakshman Premachandra, and the assassination of journalist Lasantha Wickrematunge. Additionally, he was involved in solving the Royal Park murder, Angulana double murder, Udathalawinna massacre, and the killing of Mohamed Siyam.

However, Abeysekera’s career faced controversy when he was suspended in January 2020 following leaked telephone conversations with former MP Ranjan Ramanayake, which allegedly discredited the police force.

His reappointment marks a significant step as he returns to handle critical investigations and asset recovery for the police service.