In a shocking turn of events, Sanjeewa Kumara Samararathne, a prominent gang leader, was fatally shot inside a courthouse in Colombo while he was facing legal proceedings on Wednesday. The assassination was carried out by a gunman posing as a lawyer, using a revolver disguised within a hollowed-out book. Police report that the shooter has managed to escape but was later captured, while the accomplice, identified as 25-year-old Pinpura Dewage Ishara Sewwandi, remains on the run.
Courtroom Assassination: Gang Leader Gunned Down Amid Legal Proceedings
Courtroom Assassination: Gang Leader Gunned Down Amid Legal Proceedings
A brazen shooting in a Sri Lankan courthouse has left a notorious gang leader dead, escalating concerns over courtroom security and gang violence.
Samararathne, also known as Ganemulle Sanjeewa, faced serious allegations, including multiple murder charges. Despite being heavily guarded by police, he was shot shortly after being brought to court and died upon arrival at a nearby hospital. In response to the incident, lawmakers in Sri Lanka expressed growing concerns regarding gang-related violence, describing it as a "major security issue." Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa affirmed the government's commitment to addressing the organized crime epidemic.
The shooting has spurred authorities to reevaluate courthouse security protocols, with plans to deploy armed guards during high-risk cases. Meanwhile, a total of nine lives have been lost this year in violent conflicts among rival gangs, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive measures to combat gang activity in the region.
The shooting has spurred authorities to reevaluate courthouse security protocols, with plans to deploy armed guards during high-risk cases. Meanwhile, a total of nine lives have been lost this year in violent conflicts among rival gangs, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive measures to combat gang activity in the region.
