Suriyawewa Shootout: Police Confirm Identity of Suspect

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka Police have officially identified the suspect killed in Friday’s (22) early morning shootout in Suriyawewa as Kosala, a man wanted in connection with the high-profile murder of a businessman’s son who operated the Kosgoda-Duwamodara Turtle Conservation Center.

According to police, the confrontation occurred during a joint operation by the Police Special Task Force (STF) and the Galle Crimes Division, who were conducting a raid on a suspected hideout in the Gangwadiya area near the Suriyawewa reservoir.

The suspect, believed to be involved in organized criminal activity, reportedly launched a grenade attack and opened fire with a repeater-type firearm at the officers. 

STF personnel returned fire, critically injuring the suspect, who was later pronounced dead at the Suriyawewa Hospital.

One STF officer was also injured during the exchange and is currently receiving treatment.