May 04, Colombo (LNW): Police have taken two individuals into custody following a targeted operation in the southern coastal belt, uncovering both illegal weapons and narcotics in what authorities suspect to be part of a broader criminal network.
The primary arrest was made in the Ambalangoda–Balapitiya area after officers from Ahungalla Police carried out a raid based on intelligence reports. During the search, they recovered a foreign-made pistol, a magazine, 16 rounds of live ammunition, and approximately 11.5 grammes of crystal methamphetamine, commonly known as ‘Ice’.
The suspect, a 31-year-old resident of Balapitiya, is believed to have come into possession of the weapon only days prior to his arrest. Police investigations indicate that the firearm had allegedly been passed to him by a younger associate, aged 22, who had already been apprehended earlier this month in a separate operation in the Wadduwa area.
Authorities further revealed that both individuals are suspected to have links to an organised criminal figure, who goes by the name “Loku Pattie,” operating within the underworld, raising concerns about a possible planned act of violence. Investigators believe the weapon may have been intended for use in a serious offence, though specific details remain under inquiry.
Law enforcement officials have stated that further investigations are ongoing to trace the origins of the firearm, identify additional suspects, and determine the full extent of the network involved.