May 18, Colombo (LNW): A high-profile investigation has been launched following a targeted attack on Thusitha Halloluwa, a long-time public relations figure in Sri Lanka’s political sphere, with the case now transferred to the Colombo Crimes Division (CCD) under orders from Acting Inspector General of Police Priyantha Weerasuriya.
The incident unfolded on the night of 17 May in Narahenpita, where Halloluwa was travelling in a vehicle alongside his legal counsel, Dinesh Dodangoda. According to initial reports, two unidentified gunmen on a motorcycle trailed their car before discharging warning shots into the air.
The attackers then reportedly opened fire directly at the front of the vehicle once it came to a halt, indicating a premeditated attempt to intimidate or harm.
Following the gunfire, Halloluwa claims both he and his lawyer were physically assaulted by the assailants, who then fled the scene with a file believed to contain sensitive documents.
Both victims were admitted to Colombo National Hospital for medical evaluation and treatment, though they were later discharged without life-threatening injuries.
The motive behind the attack remains unclear. However, the seizure of documents has raised suspicions of political undertones or attempts to obstruct sensitive disclosures. Halloluwa, who has held senior roles under multiple administrations — including serving as Director General of Public Relations to former President Ranil Wickremesinghe — has been a well-known figure in government communications for decades. He recently re-entered the public eye following controversial remarks linked to alleged state investment matters.
