CCTV Clues, High-Speed Escape: Inside the Hunt for Weligama Assassins

COLOMBO (News 1st); The investigation into the assassination of Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman Lasantha Wickramasekara is uncovering significant links to organized criminal networks.

Police have launched a large-scale operation to identify and apprehend the suspects, with CCTV footage currently under analysis to trace their movements.

According to investigators, the gunman fled the scene on a motorcycle accompanied by another individual. 

Footage shows the suspects escaping near Amalagoda Junction on the Matara–Akuressa Road, approximately 21 kilometers from the Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha office.

Authorities believe the pair initially traveled together on one motorcycle before switching to two separate bikes during their escape.

The body of Lasantha Wickramasekara, aged 38, a father of three and elected under the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) at the last local government election, was brought to his residence this morning. His final rites will take place on October 26 at the family burial grounds.

Minister of Public Security Ananda Wijeyapala addressed Parliament on the ongoing investigation:

“Immediately after the incident, I instructed the IGP and Senior DIG Karawita of the CID to enforce the law and launch a full-scale operation. Four police teams have been deployed, and we already have promising leads. Within two to three days, all individuals connected to this crime will be taken into custody. We deeply regret the assassination of the Chairman. As I stated yesterday, it doesn’t matter whether the victim was linked to the underworld or any other group—every life matters. We are committed to protecting every life.”

Amid rising outrage over the assassination of Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman Lasantha Wickramasekara, Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) and other opposition MPs arrived at Parliament today (23) dressed in black with black armbands, symbolizing their protest and mourning.

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa Speaks Out
Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa revealed that Wickramasekara had formally requested protection from the Inspector General of Police (IGP) on August 29, 2025, citing a credible threat to his life.

“He wrote directly to the IGP, warning of a planned assassination either while attending court or leaving the council premises. He submitted a sworn affidavit requesting adequate security during and after his official duties. Why did the government fail to protect him?”

SLPP MP Namal Rajapaksa acknowledged the seriousness of the issue:

“If a citizen formally requests protection and the police ignore it, what are we supposed to say? It’s easy to point fingers, but Lasantha clearly warned of threats to his life. Authorities failed to act.”

He also criticized the politicization of crime and emphasized the need to combat drug trafficking and organized crime, urging MPs not to defend criminals under political cover.

Minister of Public Security Ananda Wijeyapala stated that Wickramasekara was listed in the government’s criminal registry (IRC) and therefore not eligible for police protection.

“Protection is granted under the Victim and Witness Protection Act. The police cannot provide security to registered criminals.”