The Police Mounted Division was first established, in 1921 at Mihindu Mawatha, Colombo 12, as the only means of transport provided to the higher ranks and file, under the British rule, initially provided with few horses. This was the beginning of a well-established Police Mounted Division in the years to come.

It was a special unit, under the command of an European until Sri Lanka regained independence. This consisted of 08 mounted European Sergeants and Constables who were later promoted as mounted Sub Inspectors.

In addition to this the Gazetted Officers were trained in equestrian.

In 1948 the equestrian section was re- organized, expanded and for the first time 03 Sri Lankan Sub-Inspectors were trained. It was then decided that young sergeants and Constables also be trained for this purpose.  

Later in1956 the proper police mounted division was established with the strength of 01 Sub- Inspectors, 02 Police Sergeant and 22 Police Constables with 23 thorough bred horses imported from Australia.

Thereafter the strength of the number of horses had been increased from time to time and new stables have been started at Nuwara Eliya, Kandy, and at Police College Kalutara.

In 1998 a new breed of horses named �?SELLE FRANCAIS”were introduced from France for Police duties in keeping with the International standards of using warm blood horses for Police work because of their majestic appearance and calmness.

The strength of the Police Mounted Division Gradually increased to 02 Inspectors, 04 Sub- Inspectors, 10 sergeants, 34 constables with 30 horses. Presently the police mounted division is under the control of a Deputy Inspector General of Police Colombo Range and supervised by Senior Superintendent of Police.

Functions of the Division are to provide Ceremonial Mounted Escort to heads of states and foreign dignitaries visiting the country, ceremonial opening of parliament, police functions crowd control during Kandy Esala perahera, May day, national day celebrations, national sports events, demonstrations, and to disperse unruly crowds, beach and routine city patrols. To assist the foreigners to find locations and routes. This had been praised by the foreigners for the hospitality shown.

When Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth visited the country in 1924 a ceremonial Mounted Escort was provided, led by Mr.H.A. Her Majesty for this event awarded Baggot and the M.O.V. prize