News Today: Former National Lotteries Board Director remanded after CCD arrest linked to shooting case

The Former National Lotteries Board Executive Director, Thusitha Halloluwa, was arrested by the Colombo Crimes Division (CCD) in the Kollupitiya area yesterday morning during a special raid. Following his arrest, he was produced before the Colombo Chief Magistrate’s Court and was remanded till August 28.

Halloluwa’s arrest follows a warrant issued on August 18 by the Colombo Magistrate’s Court after he had been evading court proceedings. The warrant was issued in relation to an ongoing case involving a shooting incident that took place on May 17, 2025, near a private hospital at the Narahenpita roundabout. His jeep was reported to have been attacked during the incident, which led to further investigations by the CCD.

Additional Magistrate Pasan Amarasekara issued the arrest warrant after reviewing evidence and submissions presented by CCD officials. According to investigators, Halloluwa’s absence during scheduled hearings and his connection to the shooting incident prompted the CCD to request immediate legal action.

The Colombo Crimes Division confirmed that Halloluwa was apprehended without resistance and brought to court under tight security. He is expected to be produced again before the Colombo Magistrate’s Court later this month as investigations continue.

The case has drawn significant public attention, not only due to Halloluwa’s former high-ranking role at the National Lotteries Board but also because of the violent incident linked to his vehicle. Authorities are continuing inquiries to determine whether Halloluwa had any direct involvement in the shooting or if he was targeted.

The court proceedings and CCD investigations will continue in the coming weeks, with further developments expected once statements and forensic evidence are reviewed.