A sergeant from the Dambulla Highway Unit has been suspended and transferred after a social media video allegedly depicted him soliciting a bribe from a motorist. An investigation is underway with involvement from the Inspector General of Police.

A police sergeant attached to the Dambulla Highway Unit has been suspended and transferred following the emergence of a video on social media that allegedly shows him attempting to solicit a bribe, according to DIG W. P. J. Senadeera, Director of the Traffic Control and Road Safety Range. The matter has escalated to the attention of the Inspector General of Police, with authorities indicating that both disciplinary and legal action may follow once the investigation concludes.

DIG Senadeera stated that if the officer is determined to have accepted a bribe, action will be taken under the Bribery Act. The video revealed procedural violations beyond the alleged bribery attempt, including the officer remaining hidden rather than maintaining public visibility as required, and directing the driver to walk to a separate location from the vehicle, which contravenes established protocols.

The senior officer acknowledged that while a minority of traffic personnel have damaged the reputation of the Police Force, the majority perform their duties appropriately. He emphasized that traffic officers receive cash rewards for apprehending wanted suspects, making bribery unjustifiable. DIG Senadeera cautioned that officers engaging in bribery despite these incentives would face strict consequences without exception.

Public education also formed part of the response, with authorities reminding citizens that traffic fines can be paid through the GovPay app, eliminating any need to hand over cash to police officers. DIG Senadeera stressed that both soliciting and providing bribes are unacceptable, stating there is no justifiable reason for such transactions with law enforcement.