News Today: Former IGP Deshabandu Tennakoon Remanded in 2025

The former IGP Deshabandu Tennakoon, has been remanded until April 3rd, 2025, by the Matara Magistrate’s Court following his surrender. Tennakoon was wanted in connection with a shooting incident that took place near a hotel in Weligama’s Pelena area in 2023.

Key Developments in the Case

Tennakoon had been evading arrest despite an active warrant issued against him. However, on March 17th, he surrendered to the Matara Magistrate’s Court, leading to his immediate remand. Following the court order, he was transferred to Angunakolapelessa Prison under special security measures, as confirmed by prison authorities.

The Matara Magistrate’s Court had previously issued arrest orders for eight police officers, including Tennakoon and several members of the Colombo Crimes Division (CCD), for their alleged involvement in the December 31st, 2023, shooting incident in front of the W15 Hotel in Weligama.

Legal Proceedings and Court Rulings

The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) was tasked with arresting and presenting the suspects before the court. However, Tennakoon attempted to block his arrest by filing a writ petition in the Court of Appeal. This petition, seeking to prevent the execution of the Matara Magistrate’s Court’s arrest order, was dismissed on March 17th. The Court of Appeal subsequently directed the CID to take immediate action to arrest him.

Additionally, reports indicate that the Attorney General (AG) and the legal representatives of the suspects reached an agreement regarding the case. On March 16th, the AG issued a special notice concerning Tennakoon’s arrest. Under this agreement, the CID was instructed not to arrest six other suspects, including the Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the CCD, while focusing on Tennakoon as the primary suspect.

Next Steps in the Case

As the legal proceedings unfold, Tennakoon is set to remain in remand custody until April 3rd, pending further court hearings. The case has garnered significant public attention, with many awaiting updates on potential legal actions against other suspects involved in the Weligama shooting incident.