Asoka Galgamuwa, Senior Superintendent of Police of the CID affectionately known as "Gali" by his close associates, passed away recently after a prolonged illness. He was an officer whose contribution to the Police Department was multifarious and enormous.
Born on August 13, 1950 he was the son of late Galgamuwa Arachchige David Singho, a retired Police Sergeant and Mrs. Seetha Galgamuwa.
"Gali" had his formal education at Thurstan College, Colombo and took part in many extra curricular activities. He was a senior prefect and played for the 1st XI Cricket, 1st XV Rugger and was also a good boxer. Later he was the Honorary Secretary of the school OBA and constantly contributed much to the upliftment of his alma mater. After joining the Police in 1973 he played for the Police A Division rugger team and took part in boxing tournaments and won medals.
He served in the PSD and the Kollupitiya, Wellawatta and Trincomalee stations. After a long spell at the CID he became Director of the Disappearance Investigation Unit (DIU). The DIU was initiated as a unit in the CID under his stewardship with a successful new team. During this period he underwent overseas training in UK and USA.
He solved a number of criminal cases including the "Royal Park murder".
He was an inspirational officer, whose conduct was a beacon of hope.
Our friendship lasted for two decades. ''Gali'' was there in times of need, my moment of glory as well as in sorrow.
A man of action, he had indomitable courage and a burning ambition to succeed in life against unbelievable odds. Though he came from relatively humble beginnings, through his love for learning and sheer hard work he was able to reach the pinnacle of success to become one of the directors of the CID.
He leaves his beloved wife Padmini and two sons.
May he attain Nibbhana!
By Sarath Dhanapala, Rtd. ASP, Kandy |
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