Colombo, Sri Lanka — A notorious gang leader was fatally shot inside a courthouse by an individual disguised as a lawyer, sparking a major uproar and prompting a reassessment of courthouse security across Sri Lanka, police said.
The gang leader, known as Ganemulle Sanjeewa, real name Sanjeewa Kumara Samararathne, was facing multiple murder charges at the time of his death. He was arrested in September 2023 and had been in custody since then. He was escorted by twelve police officers to the court for his hearing when the tragic incident unfolded.
Authorities have identified the gunman used a revolver hidden inside a book with a hollowed-out compartment. This book was allegedly introduced into the courthouse by a female accomplice, who remains at large. The shooter managed to flee the scene immediately after the attack but was captured by law enforcement shortly thereafter. His real identity remains conflicted in reports due to his use of multiple aliases.
The female accomplice has been identified as 25-year-old Pinpura Dewage Ishara Sewwandi. In their ongoing manhunt, police have offered a reward for any information leading to her capture. Adding to the complexity of the case, a police officer and a van driver have been arrested under suspicion of assisting in the courthouse shooting.
Following the incident, officials are critically analyzing security procedures at court facilities. Noteworthy among the new safety protocols is the deployment of armed guards during the transport of specific detainees to court, aiming to prevent similar incidents.
This deadly encounter is the most recent event in a string of gang-related violence that has been escalating in Sri Lanka. The government has publicly committed to cracking down on gang violence, which has become a significant concern for public safety and national security.
As this tragic event unfolds, authorities continue to investigate and clamp down on courthouse and broader security policies to ensure the safety of all citizens and prevent the recurrence of such violent acts within legal institutions.
This article was automatically written by Open AI; the facts, figures, and circumstances mentioned may not accurately represent the true events. For corrections or removal requests, please contact contact@publiclawlibrary.org.