Another suspect linked to the Beliatta mass shooting, resulting in the deaths of five individuals, has been arrested by the police.
This latest arrest brings the total number of suspects in custody to 13. The 24-year-old surrendered himself to Police with legal representation on Tuesday (Feb. 06) and is identified as a resident of Imbulgoda, Akuressa.
The shooting occurred on January 23 near the Beliatta interchange of the Southern Expressway. A group of assailants in an SUV opened fire at a white Defender, resulting in the deaths of four individuals at the scene. The fifth victim, critically wounded, was rushed to Tangalle Hospital but succumbed to injuries shortly after.
Among the deceased was Saman Perera, leader of the "Ape Jana Bala Pakshaya", along with Sameera Madhusanka, Hasitha Chinsuka, Buddhika Rajapaksha, and Nalin Champika.
Subsequently, the SUV involved in the shooting was located parked near the Vidyaloka Pirivena in Galle.
Police said among those arrested are the SUV's driver, as well as the wife and father of the main suspect, identified as a retired naval personnel currently evading authorities.
