February 25, Colombo (LNW): The Colombo Crimes Division (CCD) has made two further arrests in relation to the tragic murder of notorious underworld figure Sanjeewa Kumara Samararatne, commonly known as “Ganemulla Sanjeewa,” who was fatally shot at the Aluthkade No. 05 Magistrate’s Court on 19 February 2025.
These latest arrests, which took place yesterday (24), have brought the total number of suspects currently in custody to ten.
The newly apprehended individuals have been identified as the mother and younger brother of one of the key suspects, Ishara Sewwandi, who is accused of playing a significant role in facilitating the crime and covering up vital information.
Both suspects are charged with aiding and abetting the murder, as well as withholding crucial details from the authorities.
The arrested individuals are:
- Pingpura Devage Chamidu Thiwanka Weerasinghe (23), from Katuwellegama, Negombo. He is accused of concealing information and providing assistance to the perpetrators of the crime.
- Sesathpura Devage Samanthi (48), also from Katuwellegama, Negombo. She faces similar charges of aiding and abetting the murder and obstructing justice by failing to inform the police about the crime.
According to the Colombo Crimes Division, both individuals had prior knowledge of the planned murder but did not report it to the authorities. Instead, they are believed to have actively assisted the criminals, further complicating the investigation.
In addition to these arrests, police have launched an appeal to the public for help in locating another key suspect in the case. The woman, identified as Pingpura Devage Ishara Sewwandi, is suspected of being instrumental in aiding the shooter. Aged 25, Ishara Sewwandi resides at 243/01, Negombo Road, Jaya Mawatha, Katuwellegama, and holds a National Identity Card (NIC) numbered 995892480V. Police are urging anyone with information about her whereabouts to come forward.
To encourage the public’s cooperation, Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP) Priyantha Weerasuriya has announced a cash reward from the Police Reward Fund for anyone who provides information leading to the arrest of Sewwandi.
Authorities have assured that the identities of all informants will be kept confidential to protect their safety.
