CID secures detention order for Criminal Gang Member 'Piyuma'

The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) has obtained detention orders against Piyum Hasthika, alias "Piyuma," a member of a criminal gang who was brought to Sri Lanka from Dubai, UAE on Thursday.

The Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court has issued a 72-hour detention order under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) to interrogate the suspect, following the CID's presentation of facts to the court regarding Piyuma's repatriation.

However, the Colombo Fort Magistrate has also directed that the 72-hour period be retroactively calculated from Feb. 15, the day of his arrival back in the country.

"Piyuma" is said to be a key associate of the infamous underworld figure and drug trafficker Salindu Malshika Gunaratne, also known as "Kudu Salindu," who is currently in CID custody.