Civil Security Department Marks 18 Years of Dedicated National Service

The Civil Security Department (CSD) marked its 18th anniversary yesterday (Sep 10) at the Civil Defence Forces Memorial in Mihintale under the patronage of Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd). CSD Director General Major General Palitha Fernando (Retd) received the Defence Secretary on arrival.

The CSD, which functions under the Ministry of Defence, traces its roots to the Home Guard Service that was restructured under Gazette No. 1462/20 on September 13, 2006. Since then, it has played an instrumental role in strengthening national security and community resilience, especially during the LTTE terrorist conflict.

The ceremony paid tribute to fallen CSD war heroes and disabled veterans who made sacrifices during the humanitarian operation. Addressing the gathering, the Defence Secretary commended the CSD's vital contribution during the conflict and its continued service in post-war nation-building.

He later engaged personally with CSD personnel and their families, listening to their concerns and extending words of encouragement, underscoring the Ministry's commitment to their welfare.

The event was attended by Venerable Maha Sangha, including Ven. Walawahenguna Wewa Dharmarathana Thero, Chief Incumbent of the Mihintale Temple, clergy of all religions, CSD Additional Director General Major General Keerti Bandara (Retd) and a large gathering of CSD members and their families.