September 02, Colombo (LNW): Twelve individuals, including former Western Provincial Council member Amal Silva, have been ordered to remain in remand custody until 13 September 2024.
This decision was handed down by the Kaduwela Magistrate’s Court following their appearance in connection with the murder of businessman Surendra Wasantha Perera, alias ‘Club Wasantha’, and another individual.
Silva was apprehended on 29 August for allegedly aiding the second gunman and the driver involved in the fatal shooting that claimed Perera’s life.
The incident occurred on 8 July during the opening ceremony of a tattoo and piercing studio in Athurugiriya. Six people were injured in the attack, two of whom, including Perera, later succumbed to their injuries.
The second gunman and the driver were arrested on 28 August in Pinwaththa, Panadura, by the Panadura Police Divisional Crimes Detective Bureau. In total, 18 individuals, including a woman, have been detained in relation to the case.
Police Media Spokesman DIG Nihal Thalduwa revealed that more than 95 per cent of the investigation has been completed, with all principal suspects identified and in custody.
However, the investigation is ongoing due to suspected foreign involvement, potentially linked to international crime syndicates or drug networks.
Thalduwa suggested that some individuals involved in the crime may be hiding abroad, possibly connected to these global criminal organisations.
The incident sent shockwaves through the community, especially as it involved notable figures, including popular singer K. Sujeewa and Perera’s wife, who were amongst the injured.
The police investigation also led to the discovery of the van used by the suspects in Bulathsinhala and the car in Kaduwela, both abandoned.
