CID Inquiry After Suspect Escapes Police Custody in Ratnapura

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has launched an inquiry into the escape of a suspect linked to multiple shooting incidents in Panadura, who fled while in custody at the Ratnapura Police Station.

The suspect, identified as Suranga Upasanka, was reportedly handed over to Ratnapura police by CID officers on July 29 for further investigations. 

He had been arrested while hiding in the Ratnapura area and was believed to be involved in several criminal activities, including recent shootings in Panadura.

According to police sources, the suspect escaped around 7:00 AM the following day after requesting to use the restroom. He fled when the cell door was opened, evading the officers on duty.

In response, the CID dispatched a team to Ratnapura Police Station to record statements from officers and assess the circumstances surrounding the escape. Two sergeants from the station have since been suspended pending further investigation.