Tab Article

Ratings: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Genre: Memoir / Biography / Police History

Book Review:
A Policeman Remembers is a fascinating and detailed memoir from Herbert Jayasuriya, a retired Senior Superintendent of Police who served in the Sri Lankan police force for 39 years. This book offers readers a rare insider's perspective on the workings of the police department during a tumultuous period in Sri Lanka's history.

Jayasuriya's career spanned from 1960 to 1998, a period that saw significant changes in the country, including the rise of terrorism and the challenges faced by the police in maintaining law and order. He served in a variety of roles, including as a Criminal Investigator in the C.I.D., Officer in charge of the Interpol Branch, Assistant Superintendent of Police in Jaffna (where he faced a terrorist attack), and Senior Superintendent of Police in charge of the Colombo Fraud Investigation Bureau.

The memoir is a candid account of his experiences, offering insights into criminal investigations, police procedures, and the personal challenges of a life in law enforcement. His descriptions of the events he witnessed and the people he encountered bring the history of the period to life.

This book is recommended for anyone interested in Sri Lankan history, police work, or biographies of public servants.