by Our Correspondent in Correspondent
A man was shot and killed inside a courtroom at the Hulftsdorp complex in Colombo earlier today. The victim, identified as Ganemulla Sanjeewa, was a well-known drug trafficker and organized criminal with a history of violent offenses. Authorities confirmed that Sanjeewa succumbed to his injuries and died instantly from the gunshot wounds.
According to police sources, the shooter, who had cleverly disguised himself as a lawyer, was able to gain access to the court premises without arousing suspicion. He was seated at the lawyer’s table when Sanjeewa entered the courtroom for a scheduled hearing related to his ongoing legal proceedings. Without warning, the assailant drew a firearm and opened fire on the notorious underworld figure at point-blank range.
The shooting took place amidst a full courtroom, leaving witnesses stunned and in shock. Sanjeewa, despite being rushed to the hospital immediately after the attack, was declared dead shortly upon arrival, as his injuries proved to be fatal.
The gunman managed to escape the scene in the chaos that followed the shooting, evading immediate capture. Police and security forces have since launched a full investigation into the incident, working to track down the suspect. Early reports indicate that the shooter may have been assisted in gaining access to the court complex, though details remain unclear.
Ganemulla Sanjeewa, a key figure in Sri Lanka’s underworld, was arrested in September 2023 upon his arrival at the Bandaranaike International Airport after returning from Nepal. He was initially detained under the Prevention of Terrorism Act and had been transferred to Boossa Prison under the orders of the Gampaha Magistrate’s Court. On the day of the shooting, he was brought to court for a remand hearing.
Security measures at the Hulftsdorp complex have come under scrutiny in the wake of today’s attack. The court complex, one of the most secure in the country, is known for handling high-profile cases involving dangerous criminal elements. The incident raises serious questions about the adequacy of security protocols, as the gunman was able to infiltrate the premises disguised as a legal professional.
The police are working tirelessly to identify the shooter, and a large-scale manhunt has been initiated. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage, questioning witnesses, and pursuing multiple leads in an effort to bring the assailant to justice. Security personnel are also reviewing current court security protocols to prevent any future breaches of this nature.
In a separate incident, a stabbing took place on the night of February 18th in the Blumenthal railway area, within the Kotahena police division. A 22-year-old man from Mattakkuliya was fatally attacked by a group of individuals on motorcycles. The victim had been lured to the location after receiving a phone call and was then taken to another area, where the attack occurred.
The motive behind the stabbing remains unclear, and the identities of the attackers are still unknown. The victim’s body is under police protection at the scene, awaiting further investigation. Kotahena Police are actively working on the case.
