The police have arrested three more suspects linked to the assassination of underworld figure Sanjeewa Kumara Samararatne, also known as “Ganemulla Sanjeewa,” bringing the total number of arrests to 11.
Among the newly arrested individuals are the younger brother and mother of Pinpura Dewage Ishara Sewwandi, the key female suspect who remains at large. Sewwandi is believed to have posed as a lawyer and smuggled the firearm used in the attack into the Hulftsdorp Court Complex.
Courtroom Shooting and Murder Investigation
The fatal shooting occurred on February 19 at the Colombo Magistrate’s Court while Ganemulla Sanjeewa was inside the witness dock. Testimonies from law enforcement officers and lawyers who were present indicate that an unidentified man, disguised as a lawyer, entered the courtroom with a concealed weapon. As the court proceedings were underway, the assailant opened fire on Sanjeewa before fleeing the scene.
According to police sources, the shooter was allegedly contacted via Facebook messages by criminal groups who identified him as a former army member. Reports suggest he was recruited for the hit after receiving an offer of “work” through social media.
SSP Buddhika Manatunga, the Police Spokesperson, noted that many individuals involved in recent crimes have military or police backgrounds. In response, Defence Secretary Sampath Thuyacontha has ordered the immediate arrest of all security forces deserters, citing concerns about their involvement in organized crime and contract killings.
Manhunt for Key Suspect
Meanwhile, police are intensifying their search for Ishara Sewwandi, who played a crucial role in smuggling the firearm into court. Authorities have released new photographs of the 25-year-old suspect and are seeking public assistance in locating her.
Acting Inspector General of Police Priyantha Weerasooriya has also announced a cash reward for any credible information leading to Sewwandi’s arrest. The police assure that the identities of informants will remain confidential.
As investigations continue, law enforcement is working to dismantle the criminal networks responsible for the attack, amid growing concerns over the rising influence of organized crime in Sri Lanka.
