Osman Gunasekera arrested over alleged role in ‘Ganemulla Sanjeewa’ murder

Colombo, May 14 (Daily Mirror) - The Colombo Crimes Division (CCD) has arrested Osman Gunasekera, alias ‘Gampaha Osman,’ over his alleged involvement in the assassination of organized crime figure Sanjeewa Kumara Samararatne, better known as ‘Ganemulla Sanjeewa.’

The 69-year-old suspect was taken into custody on Tuesday night (May 13) in the Sri Bodhi Road area of Gampaha following information uncovered during the interrogation of other suspects already detained in connection with the case.

The arrest is linked to the shocking courtroom shooting on February 19, 2025. On that day, Ganemulla Sanjeewa, who was in prison custody, was produced before Colombo Magistrate’s Court No. 05 when a gunman disguised as a lawyer opened fire inside the courtroom, killing him on the spot.

It was reported that Osman Gunasekera allegedly provided firearms and logistical assistance for the attack.

During the arrest, officers also recovered a foreign-manufactured repeater firearm, two magazines and 10 rounds of live ammunition.