A well-known gang leader has been killed after being shot inside a courthouse in Sri Lanka by an assailant posing as a lawyer, according to police reports.
Authorities report that the shooter used a revolver that was concealed within a hollowed-out book, which was allegedly brought in by a female accomplice who is still on the run.
Gang leader Sanjeewa Kumara Samararathne was taken to court to face charges when the shooting occurred. Police indicate that he was a suspect in several murder investigations.
The incident in Colombo is part of an ongoing wave of killings among rival gangs as officials pledge to combat gang-related violence in the nation.
The gang leader, widely known as Ganemulle Sanjeewa, had been in custody since his arrest in September 2023.
According to police, he was escorted to the courthouse on Wednesday by twelve police officers. After being shot, he was quickly taken to the hospital but was declared dead upon arrival.
Although the assailant was able to escape the scene, he was later apprehended by law enforcement. Authorities and local news have reported his identity differently, but police have stated that he has used multiple aliases.
Authorities have named the female suspect as 25-year-old Pinpura Dewage Ishara Sewwandi. Police have issued a notice offering a reward for any information leading to the woman’s capture. Additionally, law enforcement has arrested a police officer and a van driver who are suspected of aiding the two individuals involved in the shooting.
This incident has prompted inquiries regarding courthouse security, and officials are currently evaluating security protocols.
New security measures are being introduced in Sri Lanka courts following the shooting, including the deployment of armed guards for the transportation of specific individuals to court.
