March 30, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lankan authorities have successfully returned 30 individuals accused of serious crimes from overseas over the past three years, marking a significant push to bring fugitives to justice.
Police Media Spokesperson, Assistant Superintendent F. U. Wootler, confirmed that the latest among them is Prabhath Madusanka, also known as “Midigama Chuti”, who was repatriated to the country today. The suspect is believed to have links to organised criminal networks and faces allegations ranging from homicide and armed robbery to drug trafficking, weapons smuggling, and counterfeit currency operations.
Speaking at a media briefing in Colombo, the spokesperson stated that Madusanka will be produced before court, after which investigators are expected to seek a detention order to facilitate further questioning by the Criminal Investigation Department.
He highlighted that close collaboration with foreign law enforcement agencies has enabled Sri Lanka to secure the return of suspects even in cases where formal international alerts had not been issued. In total, 13 individuals have been repatriated under such arrangements, including two who were recently brought back from India.
According to police figures, international warrants remain active against dozens of other suspects linked to organised crime, signalling that efforts to track down fugitives are ongoing.
In a related development, authorities announced heightened security measures ahead of upcoming Easter Sunday observances. Personnel from the armed forces, police, intelligence units, and civil defence groups are set to be deployed across key locations to ensure public safety.
Meanwhile, island-wide operations targeting the illegal hoarding of fuel have led to the seizure of tens of thousands of litres of diesel, along with significant quantities of petrol and kerosene. Several suspects have been taken into custody in connection with these offences.
Police also confirmed that disciplinary action has been initiated against an Officer-in-Charge linked to a separate high-profile investigation, underscoring efforts to maintain accountability within the force as part of the broader crackdown.