As multiple police teams intensify efforts to arrest associates of the prominent organized criminal and drug trafficker 'Kosgoda Sujee' in connection with the tragic killing of five individuals in Beliatta, a complex web of conflicts has emerged. The shooting, detailed in ongoing investigations, is linked to a longstanding feud between Kosgoda Sujee and 'Ape Jana Bala Party' leader Saman Perera, revolving around the murders of Sujee's uncle and brother in 2004.
It was revealed that disputes over drug trafficking also played a role in the violent incident. The victims, including 'Royal Beach Saman,' were fatally shot near the Beliatta-Kahawatta entrance on the Southern Expressway while en route to a court appearance in Tangalle. Notably, Saman Perera, who was among those killed, faced numerous pending court cases related to murders.
The group was headed to court in connection with the murder of Asela Sampath, who was fatally shot at Kudavella Fishery Harbor on 05.06.2022.
Operating from overseas, Kosgoda Sujee orchestrated the shooting. Investigations revealed that Saman Perera's party allegedly committed the murders of Sujee's family members in 2004 and a relative in Galle in 2016. In retaliation, Sujee attempted to assassinate Saman Perera in the Idurwa area in 2018, but the attempt failed.
In response to the Beliatta shooting, Acting Inspector General of Police Deshabandu Tennakoon convened a special discussion with senior officers, including the Senior DIG in charge of the Southern Province, DIG of CID, and STF.
CCTV footage captured a group in a jeep with the license plate number 65-2615 arriving for the shooting. Photographs of a suspect have been obtained and forwarded to the Airport Automatic Face Recognition System (AFRS).
Meanwhile, the Acting IGP has directed the Director of the Crime Record Division to compile a detailed report on all individuals involved in crimes and drug trafficking associated with Kosgoda Sujee.
