On 20 March, media reports claimed that Police Media Spokesperson and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Buddhika Manatunga had resigned from his position. However, he later clarified that he would continue in the role until a suitable replacement is appointed.

Manatunga, who assumed duties as Police Media Spokesperson on 16 December following the resignation of DIG Nihal Thalduwa, submitted his resignation letter to Acting IGP Priyantha Weerasuriya on 10 March, citing personal reasons. He then travelled overseas and returned to Sri Lanka on 19 March.

However, the IGP did not accept his resignation, and while Manatunga was abroad, ASP Fredrick Wootler was appointed as Acting Police Spokesperson.

Speaking to the media following the Police Heroes’ Day celebrations on 21 March, Manatunga clarified that he would continue in his role until a suitable replacement is appointed.

“A police officer cannot simply resign from an assigned responsibility. However, I have requested a transfer for personal reasons. Until a new appointment is made, I will continue to serve in this role,” he stated.

He further added, “I will continue to perform my duties as the Police Media Spokesperson until the National Police Commission makes an appointment as per my request.”