Alleged Gunman for 'Kehelbaddara Padme' Arrested Upon Deportation from Malaysia

An individual identified as Bombuwala Devage Suranga Sanjeewa Karunaratne, alias "Matiya," allegedly the gunman for organized crime figure 'Kehelbaddara Padme,' has been arrested in Sri Lanka. He was apprehended by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) at Bandaranaike International Airport on the night of June 25th following his deportation from Malaysia, where he had been arrested by local authorities. "Matiya," a 42-year-old resident of Kotugoda, is facing serious charges, including his alleged involvement in a double homicide that occurred inside the Gampaha court premises on July 22, 2022. International Red Notices had previously been issued against him by Interpol in connection with these and other alleged crimes. Further investigations are being conducted by the Western Province North Crime Division.