Gang leader shot dead in court by man disguised as lawyer

Sri Lankan police stated that a notorious gang leader was shot dead inside a courthouse in Colombo. The gunman, disguised as a lawyer, entered the courthouse and committed the act. This brazen attack highlights the ongoing challenges in maintaining security within the judicial system.

Police revealed that the revolver used by the gunman was brought into the courthouse by a female suspect hidden inside a hollowed-out book; the female suspect is currently still at large. The gang leader, Sanjeewa Kumara Samararatne, was being escorted to court to face trial, suspected of involvement in multiple murders. Investigations are underway to determine the extent of the female suspect's involvement and her motives.

This shooting in the capital, Colombo, is one of a series of recent gang-related killings. Despite authorities' pledges to crack down on gang violence in the country, such incidents continue to occur. The gang leader, commonly known as Ganemulle Sanjeewa, had been in custody since his arrest in September 2023. The persistence of gang violence underscores the need for more effective law enforcement strategies.

Police said that on Wednesday, he was escorted to court by a dozen police officers. Following the shooting, he was rushed to the hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival. The gunman fled the scene after the incident but was subsequently apprehended by the police. Police stated that the gunman used multiple aliases, and his identity is still being further verified. The rapid apprehension of the suspect demonstrates the police's commitment to bringing perpetrators to justice.

Police have identified the female suspect as 25-year-old Pinpura Dewage Ishara Sewwandi. Authorities have issued an arrest warrant, promising a monetary reward for information leading to the woman's capture. Police have also arrested a police officer and a van driver, suspected of assisting the two suspects in the shooting. Members of Parliament discussed the issue of controlling gang violence in parliament on Wednesday, with one opposition MP calling it a "major security problem." The arrests signify a multi-faceted approach to tackling the crime, with focus on internal corruption as well.

Health and Mass Media Minister Nalinada Jayatissa, who promised to combat such criminal activities in December, stated on Wednesday that the government would "take the actions of organized underworld gangs seriously." The incident has also raised questions about security at the courthouse, and authorities are currently reviewing security measures. Justice Minister Harsha Nanayakkara stated on Thursday that new security protocols are being implemented following the shooting, including the deployment of armed guards when certain individuals are brought to court. Typically, armed security personnel are not allowed inside courtrooms. These enhanced measures aim to prevent similar incidents and reassure the public.

According to AFP, citing police data, at least nine people have died this year in a series of shootings believed to be gang-related killings. This alarming statistic highlights the severity and frequency of gang violence in the region.