By. Ashoka Peiris
Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs, Ananda Wijepala, stated in Parliament today (20) of two isolated incidents, including the recent shooting at the Aluthkade Court Complex, cannot be classified as a national security threat.
The Minister made these remarks in response to concerns raised about the shooting, confirming that the suspect arrested in connection with the incident is Samindu Dilshan Piyumanga Kandanaarachchi, a resident of Maharagama.
Acording to the information we received, the investigation revealed that the gunman was a contract killer with a history of assassinations. According to police sources, he is heavily addicted to crystal drugs (ICE) and has committed several murders for money.
Wijepala further disclosed that investigations have revealed the suspect’s involvement in several recent murders. He expressed regret over the shooting, attaching the incident to conflicts between organized crime gangs, which have occurred in the recent days.
“The government is taking strong measures to address this issue. The suspect was apprehended within hours of the incident. We assure the public that these are isolated underworld activities and do not pose a threat to national security,” the Minister said.
Criticizing those attempting to exaggerate the situation, he added, “During the tenure of those now making these claims, media institutions were set on fire and killings occurred.
The minister further commented that this culture of killing was bequeathed to the society by the main party leaders and their followers in the current opposition.