Suspected killer of former cop dies in police shooting

Sanjeewa Premakumata Silva, the main suspect wanted for the killing of a former police officer died in a shootout with the STF at Meetiyagoda yesterday.The assassination of the ex-police officer was masterminded by Karandeniye Sudda, according to the STF.

The suspect was hiding in a house in Mahawatta, Meetiyagoda. The police said he had opened fire when the police surrounded his hideout. The police returned fire, injuring him.

The suspect succumbed to his injuries at the Balapitiya hospital.Former IP Balendrasingha played an active role in combating the drug menace in the South. He had arrested Sudda and his brother Raju and another drug dealer known as Podi Lesi.

Balendrasingha was remanded about 18 months ago on charges that he had threatened a plaintiff. He was released on bail about two weeks ago.

Investigators suspect that Sudda was worried that Balendrasingha’s return would cause problems for them.Sudda is currently in Dubai.