• Ex-IGP & fmr-NPC Chair Chandra Fernando explained that ‘if reducing security leads to harm, no compensation can fix the damage’

There has been a lot of public debate about the level of security given to so-called very important persons (VIPs), such as former Presidents, Prime Ministers, Ministers, and Parliamentarians (MPs). When the National People's Power (NPP) Government took office, they aimed to reduce what they saw as excessive security perks for VIPs, like allegedly assigning too many Police officers to protect high-profile figures.

In an interview with The Daily Morning, former Inspector General of Police (IGP) and National Police Commission (NPC) Chairperson, attorney Chandra Fernando, shared his views on how VIP security is assigned, the training that such officers receive, and the costs involved, while addressing public concerns about recent changes in security policies.

Following are excerpts from the interview:

How are Police officers assigned for VIP protection?

VIP protection is a worldwide practice. Countries of all sizes make sure that their leaders and important people are safe, whether at home or abroad. The level of protection depends on the situation, and each country looks at the specific threats that their leaders might face. These threats could come from inside or outside the country, and they could be directed at a person, a group, or even a property. The first thing to do is to assess if there’s an actual risk. If there is, we then ask, “Who’s behind it?” It could be an individual, a group, or even someone outside the country. Next, we look at what kind of threat it is: does it threaten life, or is it less serious? The VIP’s role also matters. If they hold an important position — especially as a public official — they need more protection. Political or social reasons can also make someone a target, whether from within the country or abroad. Based on these factors, experts decide on the level of security that a VIP needs. They also figure out if regular Police officers are enough, or if they need special units like the Special Task Force (STF) or even the military. Then, they allocate the necessary resources, like weapons, vehicles, communication tools, and medical support, depending on how serious the threat is. In Sri Lanka, political figures are still at risk from terrorism, so, monitoring the threat level and providing them with sufficient security arrangements are very important.

Are Police officers provided with special training for VIP protection?

Yes, special training is essential for Police officers who protect VIPs. Depending on the type of threat that a particular VIP faces, officers attached to them get intense training, including commando training. They learn to use different weapons, respond quickly to emergencies, work as a team, and use advanced technical skills. VIP security officers need to show leadership, follow instructions, and make quick, calm decisions without reacting impulsively. They’re also expected to stay professional, even under pressure. Unfortunately, sometimes, connections, rather than skills, play a role in choosing VIP security personnel in Sri Lanka, which can be risky. Both VIPs and the authorities should understand it. Regular field training is also important for these officers, and they’re expected to stay physically fit too.

Are VIPs categorised when they are provided with protection?

The level of threat and the VIP’s role determine the kind of protection that they are entitled to. In a democratic system, the Government has an undeniable duty to protect high-level figures such as the President, the Premier, Ministers, MPs, and those who retired from such positions. When a VIP has a high or severe threat level, even if they aren’t in a high position, it’s still the Government’s responsibility to assign special security teams to protect them.

How would you explain a threat assessment?

A threat assessment means looking at the risks faced by a VIP, both internal and external, like harm to themselves, their family, or their property. Threats can come from political rivals, competitors for the VIP’s position, terrorists, criminals, or people with opposing views. Experts consider the nature of the threat, how serious it is, and the capability of the person or group behind it. They also review the VIP’s daily activities to make sure that they’re protected in all situations. To prevent similar situations, they also study past threats to other VIPs and incidents.

Are officers assigned to VIP protection rotated?

Officers chosen for VIP protection are picked carefully, usually with input from high-ranking officials (VIPs). These officers go through thorough background checks, and they are selected for their discipline, energy, humanity, and the ability to adapt. Generally, officers aren’t rotated often because it helps if they’re familiar with the VIP’s environment and needs. However, officers may be replaced if they’re found to be negligent, untrustworthy, associating with problematic people, or involved in substance abuse.

How do Police officers and private security guards work together for VIP protection?

Government-appointed VIP security officers work together with any private security guards hired by the VIP. Many private security guards are retired Police or military personnel, so both groups are usually well-trained and professional, which helps avoid conflicts. Coordination is handled by a senior officer from the VIP security division, who makes sure that there’s proper communication and cooperation between the Police officers and the private security personnel.

Are VIP security officers sometimes asked to do household work for VIPs’ families as alleged by certain parties?

There are some claims that VIP security officers are asked to do household tasks for VIPs’ families, and this does happen in some cases, but, it’s not the norm. Generally, VIP bodyguards focus on their security duties, though some personal tasks may be carried out on occasion. Mostly, it’s the private security personnel who are asked to help with household work.

How does the cost of VIP security affect the economy?

VIP security costs are covered by the relevant Ministries under which the Police or other security forces come. It includes paying for the personnel, vehicles, weapons, and other essential equipment. VIPs however, pay for private security services themselves. Running a VIP protection service needs a substantial budget, covering everything from resources to operations. However, this expense shouldn't be seen as an 'unnecessary cost' — it’s a responsibility to protect those who hold and held important positions, like the President, former Presidents, Ministers, and MPs. Without sufficient security, the country’s stability could be at risk, and talented people might avoid taking on important roles.

Have there been instances where the Police prevented threats to VIPs recently?

VIP security personnel depend a lot on intelligence reports to stop threats. There are usually well-trained security officers and good equipment, but sometimes, VIP security has been compromised due to intelligence failures. Threat groups often study their targets for a long time before attempting anything. It’s hard to know exactly how many threats have been prevented, but, there have been many successful interventions in recent years, protecting the President, Ministers, military commanders, and senior officers from harm. When failures happen, they usually point to both lapses in intelligence or negligence in VIP security.

Do the Executive and Legislature influence the IGP on these matters?

Yes, there is political influence on the Police force in Sri Lanka, and it has grown over the past 50 years. In the first two decades after Independence, there was less influence from the Executive and the Legislature, but since the 1970s, this influence has increased. Despite this, most IGPs tend to act within the legal boundaries.

How does VIP security work in other countries?

VIP security is present around the world, but how well it works varies by country. Even in countries with high standards, like the United States (US) and Japan, Presidents and Premiers have still faced serious threats and even assassinations. For VIP security to work well, you need accurate intelligence and advanced equipment, which can be costly for developing countries. Countries like the US, Israel, and Japan invest a lot in training and technology for VIP protection, and their VIP security officers are highly skilled. If developing countries had access to similar technology, their VIP security would improve as well.

The current Government has focused on making changes to security cadres assigned for VIPs. What is your view about it?

I won’t comment directly on the Government's decisions, but, as a former IGP, I can say that security for anyone or anything including VIPs, places of worship, or other important areas, should always be taken seriously. Threats don’t just disappear; those planning to harm someone or something are often willing to wait years, even decades, to carry out their plans. If reducing security leads to harm, no compensation can fix the damage. When security isn’t strong, it risks the safety of our people and also the country’s reputation. People may hesitate to take on important roles if they feel unsafe, and tourists and foreign leaders may avoid visiting. This would have serious consequences for our country and our economy.