By Indunil Kahatapitiya
A significant cache of ammunition and a live grenade were discovered during a search operation at the residence of former MP Chandana Kathriarachchi, who was arrested by the Colombo Crimes Division (CCD).
The arrest followed the recovery of a large quantity of ammunition, including 221 T-56 bullets, two T-56 magazines, 31 rounds of 7.2 calibre ammunition, and 103 rounds of 0.2 calibre ammunition. Officers also seized a highly dangerous live grenade, believed to be manufactured in Czechoslovakia.
The operation was carried out under the direct supervision of Colombo District DIG Nishantha Zoysa. Investigators noted that the quantity of weapons and ammunition found exceeded the standard security provisions granted to a former Member of Parliament, prompting further inquiries.
Subsequent searches of the premises led to the discovery of four additional firearms that were legally registered. One firearm was registered under Kathriarachchi’s name, while the remaining three were registered to his wife. The weapons included two shotguns and two 9mm firearms.
The CCD has launched an extensive investigation to determine the purpose behind the possession of such a large stockpile and to ascertain whether there were any links to planned criminal activity.
