A SIMPLE AND HUMBLE OFFICER AND GENTLEMAN

Former Inspector of Police Ernest Perera passed away at the age of 81.

An old boy of St. Joseph’s College, Colombo, he was a BA (Hon.) graduate in Economics from the University of Peradeniya. He joined the Police Force in 1957 and served in many parts of the country as an Assistant Superintendent, Superintendent and Deputy Inspector General of Police, before being appointed as the country’s 23rd Inspector General of Police in 1988. He held this prestigious post until 1993 and commanded high respect and acceptance from the rank and file of the Force and the then Government. Subsequent to relinquishing the post of IGP, he was appointed as the Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to Malaysia and served in this diplomatic posting for one year.

As I pen this tribute, my mind traverses down memory lane to the late 80’s when I had the opportunity to work closely with Mr. Perera, the then IGP during the period, I held the office as the President of the Police Officers’ Mess. A man of few words, he always clenched to the courage of his conviction and

He was a man of the world, well read, brilliant repertoire of anecdotes coupled with good humour, loved singing of famous English melodies of yesteryear and enjoyed playing the piano and drew fondly the attention of all friends

was farsighted in his approach. He never did wilt under pressure nor was he aggressive but firm in his decision making and not reluctant to express his candid views. He was receptive and lent a patient hearing to his subordinates.

As the IGP, even with his busy schedule, he never missed a Police “A” Division Rugger match and more often than not was seen at the Police grounds late evenings joining the Rugger team engaged in practices, giving them advice and encouragement. He also initiated several projects to uplift the standards of sports in the Police. The construction of the “Grand Stand” at the Police grounds was his brainchild which stands as a landmark masterpiece today, adding glamour and colour to the scenic beauty of the Police grounds. The extension to the old pavilion, currently housing the Police Sports Division, was also his creation. I believe even at this late stage it is nothing but right to name the Police Grandstand “Ernest Perera Grand-

As the IGP, even with his busy schedule, he never missed a Police “A” Division Rugger match and more often than not was seen at the Police grounds late evenings joining the Rugger team engaged in practices, giving them advice and encouragement

stand” as a fitting tribute to him, though he is no more amongst the living to witness this honour.

I was also privileged to be a member of the Exco of the Police Senior Officers’ Mess under the presidency of former Senior DIG M.M. Gunaratne to initiate the development projects at the Senior Officers’ Mess, under the guidance of Mr. Perera during his tenure as the IGP. During his adjournment from office back home for lunch, he often made it a point to visit the Mess and review the progress of the construction work. So was his interest and eagerness to make things happen for the betterment of the Police.

He was a man of the world, well read, brilliant repertoire of anecdotes coupled with good humour, loved singing of famous English melodies of yesteryear and enjoyed playing the piano and drew fondly the attention of all friends. The echo of his lively and dominant voice and the coalescence of his ever present jovial spirit were well known. He was a man of quality and elegance who won the hearts and minds of many. He had a wide circle of friends, sharing together their years of fellow feelings and a chosen number of exco and serving Police Officers whom he liked and mingled with closely. I was fortunate to be one amongst them.

His loving and caring wife Enid, fondly called by him as “Eno”, was a tower of strength to him and was his driving force. She was equally caring and hospitable to his friends, ever ready to entertain them to dine-out at home. Unfortunately her untimely demise 14 years ago put a complete reversal to his lifestyle. Nevertheless, he was alert and strong enough to lead his life independently.

I used to visit him at reasonable intervals and once during my tenure as the Senior Deputy Inspector General of Police, Western Province, when I visited him in hospital, he was still a cheerful man, and shared a few jokes with me. His mine of information, recollection and reminiscence of events was perfect even on the sick bed.

He was an affectionate husband to his wife, a caring father to his three daughters and sons-in-law and a loving grandfather to his grandchildren. He was also a dear friend to those who were close to him.

Someone with his stamp, mettle and genius are rare to find today. Simple and humble in his ways, he was an Officer and a Gentleman who will be well remembered by those who knew him closely and the Police Force in general. May his soul rest in peace

ASOKA WIJETILLEKA