Colombo, May 8 (Daily Mirror) – Former Director General of Sri Lanka Customs, Seevali Arukgoda, has officially retired from service after completing 37 years at the department.

In a farewell message issued on Thursday (08), Arukgoda said he retired from Sri Lanka Customs on May 5, describing his career as a “long and deeply meaningful journey” marked by challenges, sacrifices, and valuable lessons.

He said that throughout his tenure, he remained committed to upholding the law and serving with professionalism and integrity while working to strengthen the institution.

Reflecting on his time in office, Arukgoda said he was proud of what had been achieved collectively despite numerous internal and external challenges. He noted that the department had worked to overcome adversity while carrying forward the Sri Lanka Customs institution with “strength and dignity.”

He further said that efforts had been made to remove long-standing bottlenecks and curb corruption within the system, describing them as difficult but necessary reforms.

Arukgoda also expressed confidence in the next generation of leaders, saying they would require courage, commitment, and resilience to guide the institution forward.

He thanked his colleagues within Sri Lanka Customs, members of the trading community, and others who supported him throughout his career, especially during difficult periods.

The former Customs chief also extended his gratitude to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake for placing trust in him and entrusting him with the responsibility of leading Sri Lanka Customs.

Concluding his message, Arukgoda said he leaves the institution with satisfaction, believing he had fulfilled his duty to both the department and the country.