Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Traffic Control and Road Safety W. P. J. Senadheera has warned that police officers who inconvenience motorists by refusing to accept valid Digital Insurance Cards are committing a serious breach of duty.
Speaking at a media briefing today (03), DIG Senadheera said complaints had been received regarding officers attached to the Padukka and Gampaha Police Stations who had refused to accept Digital Insurance Cards from motorists.
He said the Inspector General of Police had instructed all police stations islandwide, through a directive issued on May 5, 2026, under the RTM 93 Act, to officially accept Digital Insurance Cards issued by 14 insurance companies approved by the Insurance Regulatory Commission.
The DIG further noted that Digital Insurance Cards have full legal recognition under the Electronic Transactions Act No. 19 of 2006.
He explained that police officers can also verify a vehicle’s insurance status through several toll-free methods even when a driver does not have a Digital Insurance Card.
Motorists can verify their insurance details by:
- Dialling *1338# and entering the insurance policy number or vehicle registration number.
- Sending an SMS to 1338.
- Calling the 1338 hotline call centre.
Meanwhile, the Police Department has taken steps to re-educate and raise awareness among junior officers through the Officers-in-Charge (OICs) of all 607 police stations across the country.
Motorists who encounter officers refusing to accept a valid Digital Insurance Card have been asked to lodge a complaint with the OIC of the nearest police station or contact the Traffic Headquarters special hotline on 070 475 5600.
DIG Senadheera stressed that strict disciplinary action will be taken against police officers who fail to comply with the relevant instructions.
