Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananda Wijepala told Parliament that the area in Akuregoda, Thalangama—where lawyer Buddhika Mallawarachchi and his wife were killed in a recent shooting—is not a high-security zone.
Responding to a question raised by Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa under Standing Order 27/2 in Parliament, the Minister stressed that the incident was isolated and does not pose a threat to national security, public safety or the maintenance of peace in the country.
He stated that isolated incidents occurring in different parts of the country do not undermine overall national security and added that ongoing operations to suppress underworld activity and drug trafficking are being carried out successfully.
Minister Wijepala also rejected allegations by the Opposition Leader that the government and the Police Media Spokesman had issued official statements within two hours of the shooting, claiming the deceased lawyer had links to the underworld and that the killing was connected to such associations.
He clarified that neither the government nor the Police had made any such official statements. The Minister revealed that 12 special Police teams were deployed immediately after the incident to conduct investigations and apprehend those responsible. He said four suspects accused of aiding and abetting the shooters have already been arrested and are being questioned. However, he noted that further details cannot be disclosed at this stage as it may compromise ongoing investigations.
The Minister further alleged that the Opposition was attempting to portray the incident as a breakdown of national security.
“We do not underestimate the life of any individual in this country. We do not condone anyone being killed. As a government, we are committed to protecting every citizen,” he said.
He added that since assuming office, the government has taken several measures to address the circulation of illegal weapons. He noted that weapons previously issued to politicians have yet to be fully surrendered and that investigations are underway into firearms allegedly provided to underworld elements from certain military camps.
Minister Wijepala condemned the culture of violence and reiterated the government’s regret over the tragic incident. He also extended his condolences to the family of the deceased lawyer and his wife, emphasising that the crime should not be viewed as a threat to the rule of law.