Eight police teams probe Kalutara shooting; van recovered

Eight police teams have been deployed to track down the gunmen involved in yesterday's ambush of a prison bus in Kalutara. Meanwhile, a white van believed to have been used by the gunmen to make their getaway has been found abandoned in Moragahahena last night.

Seven people, including notorious underworld gang leader Aruna Damith Udayanga Pathirana alias 'Samayan' were killed in yesterday's shooting. Two of the dead were prison officers while the other five were prison inmates. Four prison officers were also injured in the incident and are currently undergoing hospital treatment. 

Witnesses said a group of armed men, some wearing attire similar to police officers barred the way of the prison bus with a double cab before firing indiscriminately at those inside. However, they seem to have especially targetted 'Samayan' who was allegedly dragged to the front of the bus before being shot. 

The cab used in the attack was left behind by the attackers. 

The ambush took place while the prisoners were being transported to the Kaduwela Magistrate's Court. 

'Samayan' had earlier escaped an attempt on his life at the Kaduwela Magistrate's Court in September, 2015. On that occasion, he was shot by a gunman inside the court premises but escaped with injuries.

Pix by Sarath Siriwardena 

 

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