
Where it began
Following the annual firearm training programme at the Special Task Force (STF) Camp, Katukurunda, Mr. Suresh Nuwan Tharaka initiated a collective platform for licensed firearm holders, first known as the “Shooting Association”.

A responsible, organised and representative national platform for government licensed self defence firearm holders, founded on safety, discipline and the Rule of Law.
Protecting the lawful rights of licensed firearm holders, promoting responsible ownership and safe practice, and upholding the Rule of Law in Sri Lanka.

Former Chairman of the Board of Investment of Sri Lanka and the Sri Lanka Ports Authority, and former Director General of the Colombo Port City Economic Commission.
Building a legacy through unity, responsibility and mutual respect.
The establishment of the Government Licensed Firearm Holders’ Association of Sri Lanka (GLFHA) was driven by a simple yet meaningful vision: to bring government licensed self defense firearm holders together under a single, responsible, organised and representative platform.
An organisation is not defined merely by the date on which it is established. Its true identity is determined by the principles it upholds, the responsibilities it fulfils and the legacy it leaves for future generations.


The Association provides awareness, education, training and guidance on firearm safety, legal responsibilities and best practice.

The first organisation in Sri Lanka dedicated specifically to the common interests of government licensed self defence firearm holders.
To become the leading national organization representing lawful firearm holders in Sri Lanka by promoting responsible ownership, safety, professionalism, and cooperation while upholding the laws of the country.
To represent and safeguard the legitimate rights of lawful firearm holders, and to promote responsible ownership, safe handling and full compliance with the law.
Rule of Law, integrity, accountability, transparency, fairness, equality, discipline, confidentiality and mutual cooperation.

Following the annual firearm training programme at the Special Task Force (STF) Camp, Katukurunda, Mr. Suresh Nuwan Tharaka initiated a collective platform for licensed firearm holders, first known as the “Shooting Association”.

A special meeting with the Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retired), and the Additional Secretary (Civil Security and Development), Mrs. Indika Wijegunawardena.
A 12 member Working Committee was appointed to establish the Association and its organisational framework, with Mr. Suresh Nuwan Tharaka as Convener.

The Convener prepared and presented the Constitution and foundational documents governing objectives, membership, structure and administration.

Recruitment of Founding Members began on 1 August. The initial thirty (30) Founding Members were admitted by 7 August.

Held at the MCA Auditorium, Colombo 07, with all thirty Founding Members. The Constitution was adopted and the Office Bearers appointed.

The Association held its First Founding General Meeting at the MCA Auditorium, Colombo 07, with the participation of all thirty Founding Members. All…
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A special meeting was held with the Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retired), and the Additional…
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Licensed firearm holders completed the annual firearm training programme at the Special Task Force (STF) Camp in Katukurunda. The gathering that…
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Membership is open to Sri Lankan citizens who hold a valid Self Defence Firearm Licence and share the Association’s commitment to safety, discipline and the Rule of Law.