’Harak Kata’s’ attempt to grab firearm from Sub-Inspector during custody foiled

Notorious underworld figure Nadun Chinthaka Wickramaratne, also known as 'Harak Kata,' allegedly attempted to escape custody by snatching a firearm from a Sub-Inspector during questioning by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID).

However, the Sub-Inspector managed to prevent the escape, and the police have launched an investigation.

The incident occurred on Sunday (10) when Nadun Chinthaka was brought to the CID for interrogation. The constable who had assisted Harak Kata had reportedly given several toffees suspected to be mixed with alcohol to the officers guarding the suspect. While Harak Kata was being interrogated, he was taken to the toilet at his request and the police constable who helped the suspect removed his handcuffs.

Sources said that a police constable helped him remove his handcuffs in the restroom but failed to reapply them properly.

When Chinthaka was brought back for further questioning, he allegedly attempted to seize the firearm of a Sub-Inspector from the Special Task Force (STF). A scuffle ensued between the Sub-Inspector and Chinthaka, with the former successfully subduing the suspect.

Following the failed attempt by Harak Kata, the police constable who assisted Harak Kata went missing. As a result, multiple police teams have launched a search operation to locate the constable.

Nadun Chinthaka Wickramaratne, who was involved in drug trafficking from Dubai, was arrested in Madagascar earlier this year and extradited to Sri Lanka. Initially detained by the CID for a 90-day period, his detention was extended after the expiration of the initial period.

The Court of Appeal is set to announce its verdict on whether to issue an interim order preventing the further extension of Harak Kata's detention. The verdict is expected to be delivered on September 15.

Previously, there were reports of a powerful Cabinet minister allegedly exerting pressure on police officers to secure Nadun Chinthaka's release. (Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya)