A notorious gang leader was shot dead Wednesday inside a courthouse by a gunman disguised as a lawyer, according to reports. The events unfolded during criminal proceedings at the Colombo Magistrates Court, where Sanjeewa Kumara Samararathne, popularly known as Ganemulle Sanjeewa, was being escorted by commandos from the elite Special Task Force. He was shot at close range as he entered the dock for his bail hearing.
Police state the incident occurred when Samararathne, who had been under heavy guard, was targeted by the gunman. After the shooting, the injured gang leader was rushed to the hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival. Samararathne had been in custody since September 2023, facing multiple murder cases.
The shooter managed to successfully flee the scene, but law enforcement quickly embarked on efforts to apprehend him. After the investigation, police reported the shooter used a revolver hidden inside a hollowed-out book, which was smuggled in by 25-year-old Pinpura Dewage Ishara Sewwandi. She is now also wanted for her role in the tragic event. Authorities have since announced rewards for information leading to her capture and are pursuing all possible leads.
Following this harrowing incident, police have arrested additional suspects, including a policeman and van driver suspected of aiding the perpetrators. This marks just the most recent violence linked to gang rivalry, as Sri Lanka grapples with organized crime. The country has faced rampant gang violence lately, with at least nine people losing their lives this year alone due to similar conflicts.
Officials are now calling for immediate action to address gang violence, with Health and Mass Media Minister Nalinda Jayatissa voicing the government's commitment to tackling this issue. He remarked, "The government will take the actions of organized underworld gangs seriously." This statement resonates deeply amid the alarming frequency of gang-related killings.
The chilling event has raised serious concerns over courthouse security. Following the assassination of Samararathne, there have been discussions among lawmakers, with some highlighting the pressing nature of securing the judicial environment. Reports signal a review of existing security protocols, as officials agree enhancements are necessary to prevent future incidents.
Among the proposals being considered are deploying armed guards when high-profile suspects are brought to court. Lawmakers indicate this should be part of the broader solutions needed to curb the increasing violence and restore faith within the legal system.
Though the gang leader's death is seen by some as a temporary victory against crime, it undoubtedly presents new challenges as the struggle between law enforcement and organized crime persists. Authorities remain on alert, ready to act, as the country navigates the turbulent waters of gang violence and security breaches.
This tragic courtroom shooting brings to light the urgent need for heightened security and effective measures to confront gang violence, challenging Sri Lankan society to respond systemically to the threats posed by increased organized crime.