Doubtful of a proper investigation on Thajudeen killing : MP

By Yohan Perera  

Colombo — There are serious doubts whether a proper investigation will be carried out into the murder of national rugby player Wasim Thajudeen, despite recent revelations emerging from the inquiry into the killing of underworld figure Anura Vidanagamage, alias “Kajja”, Opposition MP Mujibur Rahman said yesterday. 

Addressing a media briefing, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) parliamentarian said it is unlikely that justice will be served in Thajudeen’s case, as individuals involved in covering up critical information are now aligned with the current government.  

“One individual who concealed key details about telephone communications related to Thajudeen’s murder is currently serving as an advisor to this government,” Rahman alleged. “In such a scenario, it is highly doubtful that a credible investigation can be carried out.”  

On Tuesday, Acting Police Spokesman ASP Minura Senarath revealed that Anura Vidanagamage — who was recently gunned down in Middeniya along with his two children — had been in a vehicle that tailed Thajudeen’s car shortly before the rugby player’s death. This information came to light during the ongoing investigation into Kajja’s killing, based on statements given by underworld figure ‘Backhoe Saman,’ who was arrested in Indonesia and is suspected of orchestrating the attack on Kajja.  

MP Rahman further drew parallels to the stalled investigation into the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks, claiming that progress remains unlikely as certain individuals who allegedly played indirect roles in facilitating the attacks are also connected to the present administration.  

He also criticized Speaker Jagath Wickramaratne, accusing him of obstructing parliamentary debate on a no-confidence motion against Deputy Defence Minister Aruna Jayasekera. According to Rahman, this move was intended to prevent the disclosure of sensitive information relating to the Easter attacks.