A notorious gang leader was killed in a Sri Lankan courthouse by a gunman posing as a lawyer, highlighting ongoing gang violence and raising serious security concerns.
**Gang Leader Shot Dead in Court by Disguised Gunman**
**Gang Leader Shot Dead in Court by Disguised Gunman**
Police report a courtroom assassination, prompting urgent security review in Colombo.
A notorious gang leader in Sri Lanka was shot dead in a courthouse, raising alarm over courtroom security, following reports that the assailant was disguised as a lawyer. Sanjeewa Kumara Samararathne, often known as Ganemulle Sanjeewa, was killed in the capital city of Colombo while facing multiple murder charges. Eyewitness accounts revealed that the gunman managed to smuggle a revolver into the courthouse hidden within a hollowed-out book, provided by a female accomplice who remains at large.
The shooting took place while Samararathne was being escorted by a squad of twelve police officers. Despite receiving prompt medical attention and being rushed to a hospital, he was declared dead upon arrival. The gunman, who fled the scene immediately after the shooting, was later apprehended, although authorities noted he had been using various aliases.
Police have identified the female suspect, Pinpura Dewage Ishara Sewwandi, aged 25, and have issued a public appeal for information leading to her capture. Additionally, two individuals—a police officer and a van driver—are in custody for allegedly assisting the suspects in the execution of the attack. The spike in gang-related violence has led lawmakers to discuss security measures in parliament, with a significant rise in shootings due to gang rivalries this year.
Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa emphasized the government's commitment to combating organized crime, stating they would treat the actions of such gangs with the seriousness they deserve. In light of the incident, a review of courthouse security protocols has been initiated, which may include the deployment of armed guards during specific proceedings—an unusual measure, as armed security is typically prohibited inside courtrooms.
The spate of violence attributed to gang rivalries continues to pose a major concern, with at least nine reported gang-related fatalities just this year, indicating the urgency for improved safety and preventive measures in Sri Lanka.
