Underworld figure Kanjipani Imran linked to Athurugiriya shooting

Several police teams are investigating a shooting that occurred in broad daylight at Oruwala Junction in Athurugiriya. The incident resulted in the deaths of two individuals, including businessman Surendra Wasantha Perera, also known as 'Club Wasantha,' and left four others injured, including popular singer K. Sujeewa.

Authorities suspect the shooting may have been orchestrated by notorious criminal Kanjipani Imran, who is believed to operate internationally. Kanjipani Imran, a known associate of the late 'Makandure Madush,' is speculated to have targeted Club Wasantha. However, Police Spokesman DIG Nihal Thalduwa stated that investigations are ongoing to ascertain the exact motive behind the attack.

The incident, which took place around 10 a.m. yesterday, was captured on CCTV. Two assailants armed with T56 assault rifles arrived in a vehicle and opened fire at a gathering on the second floor of a two-story building, where a Tattoo Studio was being inaugurated. Among those present were Club Wasantha, his wife, singer K. Sujeewa, and Sujeewa's two daughters.

Over 60 empty ammunition shells, some marked with "KJI," were recovered from the scene, leading to suspicions of links to Kanjipani Imran. 

The colour of these ammunition are different from normal ammunition, Police stated, saying that they are going to submit it to the Government Analyst to know if any liquid has been coated on them. Police suspect a gold liquid has been coated on them.

Police suspect shooters may have used some liquid on the bullets as Wasantha was known to wear a suraya (an amulet) to protect him from any shootings.

The vehicle used in the shooting was found abandoned later in Korathota, Kaduwela, and CCTV footage revealed that the gunmen escaped in a van from that location.

In addition to the fatalities, four individuals were injured in the shooting. Singer K. Sujeewa and another male were transferred to the National Hospital in Colombo for treatment of serious gunshot wounds, while Club Wasantha's wife underwent surgery at Homagama Hospital.