A suspected underworld gunman was killed in a shootout with Police Special Task Force (STF) personnel in Ganemulla last night.
According to police, the suspect opened fire on STF personnel who were conducting a search at a residence on Sumedha Mawatha in Ganemulla, based on intelligence received.
During the exchange of gunfire, the suspect sustained critical injuries from police return fire. Despite receiving treatment at Ragama Hospital, he succumbed to his injuries. Additionally, a member of the STF was injured during the shootout.
Meanwhile, at least 19 individuals directly linked to the underworld have been arrested since Tuesday during the special operation launched under ‘Yukthiya’ operation.
In response to a concerning increase in organized criminal activities in the Western and Southern Provinces, a special operation targeting 20 identified organized criminal gangs in the country was launched under the 'Yukthiya' initiative on Tuesday.
