Shooter linked to ‘Ganemulla Sanjeewa’ murder contacted by criminals via Facebook

• Defence Secretary orders arrest of security forces deserters

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya   

The shooter responsible for the murder of ‘Ganemulla  Sanjeewa’ at the Hulftsdorp Court Complex was reportedly contacted by  criminals through Facebook messages, Police Spokesperson SSP Buddhika  Manatunga said.   

After the criminals identified the man as a former army  member, they sent messages via Facebook stating that they have work for  him if he had nothing else to do.   

The spokesman said that, based on past experiences, it is  clear that the majority of those involved in crimes are members of the  armed forces or the police.  

“If someone from the military leaves service without being  legally discharged, that is an offence. There are provisions in the law  to arrest them,” he said.   

Defence Secretary Sampath Thuyacontha issued an order  yesterday for the immediate arrest of deserters from the country’s  security forces.   

This directive comes in response to a troubling increase in shooting incidents reported in recent weeks.   

In response to growing concerns over former military  personnel’s involvement in criminal activities, Defence Secretary  Thuyacontha revealed that many individuals linked to recent crimes had  either unofficially left or been discharged from military service after  receiving weapons training.   

 He assured that the authorities, with the assistance of the police, are working to arrest these individuals.   

Meanwhile, police investigations are still underway to  arrest the female suspect Pinpura Dewage Ishara Sewwandi, who is wanted  in connection with the murder of ‘Ganemulla Sanjeewa.’   

The police released new photographs of the female suspect yesterday, seeking public assistance to apprehend her.   

The suspect, who is still at large, has been identified as  25-year-old Pinpura Dewage Ishara Sewwandi, residing at 243/01, Jaya  Mawatha, Negombo Road, Katuwellegama.   

Police said Acting Inspector General of Police Priyantha  Weerasooriya has also decided to offer a cash reward for anyone who  provides accurate information leading to the suspect’s arrest.   

They said that the identities of those who provide such information will be kept strictly confidential.