Former soldier and underworld assassin killed in shoot-out with STF

By Hemantha Randunu and Amila Sampath

Nuwan Lakshitha, a former soldier and notorious underworld assassin, died on Wednesday (28), in a confrontation with the Special Task Force (STF).

Lakshitha, implicated in the recent killing of Hettiarachchige Don Sujith, known as Ukkuwa and brother-in-law of criminal gang leader Welle Saranga, was found hiding in a chena in Andigama, Suriyawewa.

During the STF’s attempt to apprehend him, Lakshitha opened fire, prompting a retaliatory response that led to his death. An STF official sustained injuries in the exchange.

Lakshitha, armed with a revolver, was identified as the individual who had ridden the motorcycle used by the assailant responsible for Ukkuwa’s murder in Mahabage. The shooter apprehended by the STF a few days earlier had provided information leading to Lakshitha’s location.

A 45-year-old, Lakshitha had served in the Gemunu Regiment since 1999, concluding his 25-year military service just a few months ago. Investigations revealed his involvement in criminal activities even during his active duty.

Notably, the other two suspects linked to Ukkuwa’s murder also have military backgrounds, with the shooter currently serving in Batticaloa. The motive behind Ukkuwa’s killing was reportedly a prolonged feud between Welle Saranga and underworld kingpin Dubai Nipuna. The three perpetrators carried out the murder for a sum of 300,000 rupees.