Gang Leader Shot Dead in Sri Lankan Courthouse by Gunman Disguised as Lawyer

A notorious gang leader in Sri Lanka has been killed after a gunman, disguised as a lawyer, shot him inside a courthouse, according to police.

The shooter, armed with a revolver concealed in a hollowed-out book, was assisted by a female suspect who remains on the run. The police have yet to apprehend her.

Sanjeewa Kumara Samararathne, known as Ganemulle Sanjeewa, had been escorted to court to face charges in multiple murder cases when the fatal shooting occurred.

The incident, which took place in Colombo, is part of an ongoing wave of violence between rival gangs, despite authorities’ promises to crack down on gang-related crime.

Samaraathne had been in custody since his arrest in September 2023. On Wednesday, he was escorted to the courthouse by a dozen police officers. After being shot, he was rushed to the hospital but was declared dead on arrival.

The gunman managed to escape from the courthouse but was later apprehended by police. While the authorities and local media have provided conflicting identities, police say he was known by several names.

The female suspect has been identified as 25-year-old Pinpura Dewage Ishara Sewwandi. Authorities have issued a notice offering a reward for information on her whereabouts. In addition, a police officer and a van driver have been arrested in connection with aiding the suspects in the shooting.