News Today: Sri Lankan Police Intensify Efforts to Bring Back Overseas Criminals

In a significant move to combat organized crime, the Sri Lanka Police have intensified efforts to repatriate over 20 wanted criminals residing overseas. According to Police Media Spokesman SSP Buddhika Manatunga, these individuals are believed to be orchestrating various criminal operations from abroad. Red notices via Interpol have been issued, and steps are actively underway to bring them back from countries like Dubai, India, and Canada.

The recent arrest and extradition of Sujeewa Ruwan Kumara de Silva, alias “Loku Pattie,” marks a major victory in this mission. He was apprehended in Belarus, transferred to Dubai, and then flown to Sri Lanka under the escort of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), landing at Katunayake International Airport at 7.48 a.m. yesterday.

Loku Pattie, a 36-year-old former Army member from Ahungalla, is considered a key figure in the Sri Lankan underworld. He faces multiple charges, including the Club Wasantha murder, heroin possession, firearms offenses, bombings, and contract killings. Among other grave allegations, he is linked to several fatal shootings in Ahungalla and Athurugiriya from 2022 to 2024.

SSP Manatunga highlighted that 11 criminals have already been repatriated with the support of foreign governments and Interpol. These actions are part of a broader initiative targeting underworld leaders, drug traffickers, and organized gangs.

This operation reflects a new era of law enforcement collaboration, showcasing Sri Lanka’s commitment to curbing criminal activities and restoring public safety.