Rtd. DIG Saman Gunaratne
M.K.B.S. Gunaratne, fondly known as Saman Gunaratne, is a name that resonates with courage, discipline, and leadership. From his days as a promising schoolboy boxer in Kandy to his distinguished service as a Deputy Inspector General of Police, his journey reflects the essence of perseverance and patriotism.
Saman Gunaratne's boxing journey began in 1976 at St. Sylvester's College, Kandy, where his natural strength and fighting spirit quickly stood out. Just a year later, he claimed the Central Province Boxing Championship (1977), signaling the start of a remarkable sporting career. As a proud Sylvestrian, he went on to win multiple Junior National School Championships and Stubbs Shield titles, making his mark as one of the most talented young boxers of his generation. His leadership qualities shone early when he was appointed Vice-Captain of the college boxing team, an early sign of the leadership roles he would later embrace in life.
After completing school in 1984, Gunaratne transitioned to the national boxing scene with confidence and determination. That same year, at the Clifford Cup Tournament, he stunned the crowd by knocking out a Nepalese South Asian Silver Medalist, announcing his arrival among the elite. Between 1987 and 1991, he dominated the sport, winning several National Championships, Layton Championships, and Clifford Cups. His leadership qualities earned him the position of Captain of the Sri Lanka National Boxing Team from 1989 to 1992, during which he guided his teammates with pride and professionalism. In 1989, he was crowned Best Boxer of the National Championships, followed by multiple accolades such as Best National Sports Star (1990 & 1991), Most Popular Sports Star (1990 & 1991), and Most Outstanding Boxer (1990).
One of the most memorable highlights of his career came at the 1989 South Asian Federation (SAF) Games in Islamabad, Pakistan, where he won the Silver Medal for Sri Lanka. During the same event, he had the once-in-a-lifetime honor of meeting boxing legend Muhammad Ali at the Pakistan Presidential Palace a moment he treasures deeply. In 1990, Gunaratne made history by reclaiming the Sir William Manning Challenge Trophy for the Sri Lanka Police Department after a 31-year gap -a milestone achievement in the annals. of police boxing. His extraordinary contributions to sport and society were further recognized when he received the Top 10 Lion Award from the Lion Club that same year.
In 1988, Gunaratne joined the Sri Lanka Police Special Task Force (STF) as a Sub-Inspector, marking the beginning of another illustrious chapter in his life. His discipline and leadership skills, honed through years in the boxing ring, proved invaluable in law enforcement Throughout his 37-year career, he held several vital positions - Camp Commanding Officer, District and Zonal Commanding Officer, Operations Commanding Officer, Director of the President's Office, and Deputy Commandant of Administration and Operations. During the Sri Lankan civil conflict, his leadership and bravery in critical operations earned him numerous commendations and medals for gallantry. His dedication and strategic acumen ultimately led to his promotion as Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) and Deputy Commandant of the STF. He retired in 2024, concluding a lifetime of loyal service to the nation.
Rtd. DIG Saman Gunaratne's story is one of grit, glory, and grace. Whether in the ring or on the battlefield of public service, he displayed the same spirit of commitment and integrity. His legacy stands as an inspiration to aspiring boxers and officers alike a powerful reminder that true champions are not only measured by medals or ranks, but by their unwavering dedication to duty and excellence.