Area residents thwart armed robbery attempt: One suspect arrested

One of three suspects who attempted to rob a businessman in Mabola, Wattala have been arrested. Police said three men had attempted to rob the businessman, who was inside a van, at about 10.45pm last night. 

However, members of the public who were in the vicinity had attacked the armed robbers, whereupon they escaped after firing into the air. One of the three men was subsequently caught by officers from the Wattala Police. A foreign-made revolver and two bullets were found from the suspect's possession, police stated. 

The arrested suspect has been identified as a 41-year-old resident of Kotahena. He is currently receiving treatment under guard at the Ragama Teaching Hospital for injuries sustained after being attacked by area residents during the robbery attempt. Wattala Police are investigating. 

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