Notorious Kajja's Murder: A Predicted Tragedy?

COLOMBO (News 1st); Aruna Vidanagamage, also known as Meegas-Are' Kajja, a controversial figure in the south of Sri Lanka was targeted by armed gunmen on Tuesday (18) night.

He was shot dead along with his six-year-old daughter, and nine-year-old son.

While Aruna Vidanagamage died on the spot, according to report, his two children died while being treated in hospital.

Aruna Vidanagamage, also known as Meegas-Are' Kajja, was a notorious figure in the Hambantota District, especially in areas such as Medamulana, Tangalle, and Middeniya.

He faced multiple accusations related to crimes such as illegal possession of firearms and extortion and had been remanded several times. Vidanagamage was closely associated with several prominent politicians in the district.

He gained significant attention last year after making controversial statements on a YouTube channel, where he hinted at threats to his life. In one of his statements, he said, "If something happens to my life, all this evidence will come to the media. If you can, kill me. I am not afraid; these people have already wished me Nirvana."

Just a day before his death, Vidanagamage posted a message on his Facebook account, urging people to focus on living happily without worrying about distant death: "Think about the life you have now and live happily without worrying about distant death. There is nothing impossible."

The incident occurred while Vidanagamage and his three children were traveling on a motorcycle.

At around 10 PM, they left his in-laws' residence in Medamuwala, intending to reach their temporary shelter in Thorakolayaya.

En route, he dropped off his eldest son in Gal-Potta-Yaya to purchase dinner for the family.

Vidanagamage and his children were ambushed approximately one kilometer after passing the night hotel where his elder son was sent to fetch food. The attack took place at Kadewatte Junction in Middeniya.

Police have confirmed that a T-56 firearm was used in the shooting.

No suspects have been identified in connection with the murder. Police investigations are ongoing.

SSP Buddhika Manathunga, Police Spokesperson, stated that investigations have revealed that two men on a motorcycle committed the murder.

Despite Vidanagamage's claims of a possible threat to his life on social media, he had not lodged a formal complaint with any police station, said the Police Spokesperson