Judge vows to care for children of policeman shot in Nallur

Jaffna High Court Judge M. Illanchelian says that he will take care of the children of the late Sub Inspector Sarath Premachandra, the police officer who died following the shooting in Nallur while escorting him.

The officer, a Sergeant who was posthumously promoted to the rank Sub Inspector, was on a police bike escorting the High Court Judge when the gunman had opened fire at the vehicle near the Nallur Kovil in Jaffna on July 22.

He was hospitalised with a gunshot wound and succumbed to injuries the following morning. The officer is survived by his wife and two children.

“I have two kids. Both are boys. From today I will look after Premachandra’s daughter and the son. Now I have four kids,” Justice Illanchelian said, speaking to reporters.

The HC Judge said that he will definitely look after the officer’s two children for their education and future until his death.

“I can’t give them my love and affection like their father. On the other hand economically, financially definitely I will safeguard these children. That’s my duty, my responsibility.”

Illanchelian stated that at the same time he will educate Premachandra’s daughter all the way to university level and that he will even financially help for her marriage. “Till my death both these kids are like my children.”