In two distinct legal proceedings concluding in 2026, Sri Lankan High Courts have imposed the death penalty on a total of thirteen individuals for past murder convictions. The Balapitiya High Court sentenced five people to death for the murder of Manjula in Bataduwa, Batapola, Meetiyagoda, which occurred on or around July 29, 2007. This verdict followed a 19-year trial. Separately, the Colombo High Court sentenced eight individuals to death for a double murder and related offences in the Tarawatta area, dating back to September 21, 1997. This case concluded after a trial spanning approximately 30 years, with seven accused present in court for the judgment.
The Pulse
CrimePoliticsHOT4h ago
Sri Lankan High Courts Impose Death Sentences in Separate Murder Cases
TLDR
Five sentenced to death by Balapitiya HC for 2007 murder after 19-year trial.
Eight sentenced to death by Colombo HC for 1997 murder after ~30-year trial.
Total of thirteen death sentences handed down in 2026 for past homicides.