Retired Senior Deputy Inspector General of Police (SDIG) Priyantha Jayakody was arrested by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) this evening (28) for allegedly issuing threats to former Public Security Minister Tiran Alles, Senior DIG in charge of Police Administration Lalith Pathinayake, and himself, through a third party.
Following his arrest, Priyantha Jayakody claimed to be unwell and was admitted to the Ragama Hospital. He is currently receiving treatment under police custody.
Police sources say investigations have begun into why Jayakody—once regarded as a respected and high-profile officer in the police force—would engage in such an act.
Suspicion arose after threatening messages were directed at Tiran Alles, Lalith Pathinayake, and Jayakody himself on July 6. Investigators noted that criminal elements, including underworld figures, generally avoid targeting security forces or political figures, considering it an extreme move.
Authorities are now closely examining the motive behind the threats, particularly why irrelevant individuals were named in connection with incidents such as the murder of underworld figure Makandure Madush—events that had no link to Kehel Baddara Padme, the name allegedly used in the threats.
Upon analysis of the phone numbers used in the threats, investigators discovered that the calls originated from a number registered in Dubai. It was further revealed that Priyantha Jayakody had used an app to disguise the number and route the threats through another individual.
A comprehensive investigation into the matter is currently underway.
