Underworld figure 'Loku Patti' suspected in shooting of former cricketer

Police suspect underworld criminal 'Loku Patti' has orchestrated the shooting of Dhammika Niroshan also known as Jonty. the former Sri Lanka Under-19 Cricket Captain.

The incident occurred on Tuesday night between 9:25 and 9:30 PM at his residence on Kanda Mawatha, Ambalangoda.

Niroshan, a right-handed batsman and medium-fast bowler, was preparing to leave on his motorcycle to attend a funeral when three masked assailants approached and opened fire. Tragically, he succumbed to his injuries from the attack.

Police suspect that the orchestrated shooting may involve underworld criminal 'Loku Patti', who has been linked to previous violent incidents, including the shooting of Surendra Wasantha, alias Club Wasantha, and others. 

It's believed that an extortion attempt demanding Rs. 5 million could be a motive behind the attack on Niroshan.

According to reports, three masked individuals approached Niroshan's house and carried out the shooting as he was about to leave on his motorcycle to attend a funeral.

Police suspect the assailants came from the nearby jungle area. 

There are indications that the suspect, Loku Patti, is currently residing in Dubai, and Niroshan had also lived in Dubai previously, having moved abroad due to threats to his life.

Niroshan, aged 41 and a father of two, had returned to Sri Lanka about a month and a half ago and was reportedly planning to leave the country again before his untimely death.