The Sri Lanka Police have arrested the suspected shooter involved in the tragic killing of Dhammika Niroshana, also known as ‘Jonty,’ the former captain of Sri Lanka’s Under-19 cricket team.
According to authorities from the Galle District Crimes Division, the arrest took place in the Randombe area of Balapitiya. The suspect, identified as a 48-year-old individual, was found in possession of 2,800 milligrams of crystal methamphetamine, commonly referred to as ‘ice.’
The police said that the shooting of Dhammika Niroshana was allegedly orchestrated by three assailants, with the arrested suspect being one of them. Investigations are currently underway to identify and arrest the remaining suspects involved in the crime.
Moreover, officers from the Elpitiya Divisional Crimes Unit have recovered clothing items believed to have been used by the suspects as disguises during the crime.
Authorities suspect that the motive behind the murder may be linked to a contract received from a foreign entity. Investigations indicate a possible connection to a past dispute involving illegal gambling activities, as Dhammika Niroshana had reportedly organized such events and had previously received threats on his life.
Following the arrest, the suspect was presented before the Balapitiya Magistrate’s Court and subsequently remanded until August 3.
