Security sources report that intelligence agencies are perplexed by the lack of information about two of the most feared underworld criminals, Arumahandige Janith Madhusankha, alias “Podi Lasi,” and Salindu Malshika Gunaratne, alias “Kudu Salindu,” since their release on bail.
The Mysterious Case of Podi Lasi
Arumahandige Janith Madhusankha, better known as Podi Lasi, had been in prison for an extended period due to his inability to fulfill bail conditions. However, on Monday, the 9th, he was unexpectedly released after meeting the requirements. Speculation arose that his release was linked to assurances of safety or a specific undisclosed plan. Nevertheless, intelligence agencies are now concerned as no information about him has surfaced since his release.
The Disappearance of Kudu Salindu
Similarly, Salindu Malshika Gunaratne, also known as Panadura Kudu Salindu or Tharindu Malshitha Gunaratne, was granted bail on Friday, the 20th. After leaving the court premises in a van with tinted windows, accompanied by his lawyers and followers, he reportedly traveled to the Negombo area. Since then, no credible information about his whereabouts has been obtained, further puzzling authorities.
The Capture and Transport of Kudu Salindu
Kudu Salindu and Harak Kata were arrested in Madagascar and brought to Sri Lanka on March 15 last year, following a challenging and intricate operation. Displaying violent resistance to avoid extradition, they were subdued with significant effort by a team of four officers, including two Assistant Superintendents of Police.
Their transfer involved an arduous journey from Madagascar to Kenya, with an 18-hour layover at the Kenyan airport, before continuing to Mumbai and finally arriving in Colombo. Upon arrival, the suspects were escorted through a restricted entrance at the Colombo airport and handed over to the CID for further investigation.
Revelations from CID Investigations
According to investigations, it was discovered that Kudu Salindu and Harak Kata were responsible for smuggling over 5,000 kilograms (5 tons) of drugs into Sri Lanka while operating from abroad. Technical analyses of their mobile phones revealed extensive criminal activity, including drug trafficking and murders.
The investigations also uncovered corruption within law enforcement, with several police officers allegedly collaborating with Kudu Salindu’s criminal network. High-ranking officers were accused of tampering with evidence and facilitating his escape from justice in exchange for bribes.
Granting Bail and Current Concerns
Despite these findings, Kudu Salindu was granted bail in cases Nos. 96863 and 85145/22, following procedures similar to those in his earlier cases. Since his release, security forces have been unable to ascertain his whereabouts, raising concerns about the implications of his freedom.
Authorities remain on high alert, but the current lack of actionable intelligence highlights significant gaps in the monitoring of high-profile criminals.
