A 21-year-old suspect in police custody has died after an incident involving police officers while being taken to the Maniyangama area in Avissawella as part of an ongoing investigation.
According to the police, the suspect, wanted in connection with a double homicide on September 20, during which two victims were fatally shot in Thalduwa, Avissawella, with two other individuals sustaining serious injuries, was arrested by the Special Task Force (STF). Upon his apprehension, the police discovered 06 grams and 170 milligrams of heroin in his possession. The STF subsequently transferred the suspect to the Hambanthota Police.
Subsequently, the suspect was handed over to the Avissawella Police, where he was presented before the Avissawella Magistrate to secure a 72-hour detention order.
Following information obtained from the suspect, the police takenv him to Ethpanthiya Road in Maningama, Avissawella, this morning to aid in the retrieval of pertinent evidence for court proceedings.
During the journey, the suspect attempted to strangle a police officer using the handcuffs applied to him. A confrontation ensued, leading to injuries sustained by both the suspect and the police officer, as the concerned officer managed to escape, with other officers coming to his rescue.
Both the suspect and the injured police officer were subsequently admitted to Avissawella Hospital for medical treatment, where the suspect ultimately succumbed to his injuries.
The deceased suspect has been identified as a resident of Maniyangama.
The Avissawella Police are conducting further investigations under the direct supervision of the Seethawakapura Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP).
