May 3, 2013, 8:58 pm


Recently an English daily newspaper showed the picture of a police officer, described there as a senior officer, saluting Mr. Duminda Silva shown relaxing at home, soon after he had arrived from the Nawaloka Hospital, after being released on bail.

Looking at the saluting police officer, Mr. DS appeared to be amused. If I was asked to guess what Mr. DS was thinking, looking at the police officer saluting him, my guess would be something like "good to have you guys dancing round me again." It is the same everywhere with policemen, even the high rankers. They care two hoots about keeping the integrity and dignity of the police force and fall like nine pins before politicians with clout and even their minions.

However, we must not forget that there is one unit of the service where the integrity and dignity of the police are fiercely guarded, and there is no sucking after politicians or big shots; only unquestioned loyalty and obedience to the commanding officer. I refer, of course, to those loyal, courageous and super - efficient canines of the Police kennels that do a fantastic job in assisting the Police in apprehending criminals, and detecting contraband and stolen goods, and even helping in military combat operations.

These canines are highly regarded in the Police Department and they are given ranks, rewards and promotions, and even ceremonial funerals after death for outstanding performance.

While policemen and officers continue to salute politicians, we salute the police canines for upholding whatever is left of the dignity and integrity of the Police Department. Thank God the Police have gone to the dogs!

Sagarica Rajakarunanayake

Sathva Mithra

island.lk