Senior DIG Chandana Wickremaratne has been appointed the acting IGP with immediate effect. 

However, IGP Pujith Jayasundara has refused to step down from his position, defying directives by President Maithripala Sirisena.

The President's Media Division (PMD) said Wickremaratne received his letter of appointment from President Sirisena this morning. 

Meanwhile, former IGP N.K. Illangakoon has been appointed a Special Advisor to the Ministry of Defence. 

Meanwhile, Solicitor General Dappula de Livera has been appointed the Acting Attorney General. 

De Livera replaces Jayantha Jayasuriya who was recently appointed the Chief Justice by President Sirisena.