Second Akuregoda Gunman Linked to 10 Other Crimes

COLOMBO (News 1st); Police investigations have revealed that the second gunman arrested over the killing of lawyer Buddhika Mallewarachchi and his wife in Akuregoda has been linked to 10 other serious crimes, including murder, robbery and drug trafficking.

Police said the offences connected to the suspect also include incidents of rape, all carried out within the Southern Province.

The suspect, identified as a former Navy sailor, was arrested during an operation in the Nakkala, Tamwatta area in Monaragala, following a tip-off.

Police stated that he was hiding in an abandoned house at the time of arrest, along with two others who were also taken into custody.

The first gunman involved in the Akuregoda shooting had previously been arrested in Ambalangoda.

In addition, two individuals involved in transporting the weapons used in the attack, as well as a coordinator linked to the operation, were also arrested earlier.

Attorney-at-Law Buddhika Mallewarachchi and his wife were shot dead in Athurugiriya, Akuregoda, on February 13. According to police, the shooting was orchestrated by an organised criminal known as 'Karandeniya Sudda.'

Investigations have also revealed that the murdered lawyer represented Karandeniya Sudda in several court cases.