A suspect has been arrested by Wennappuwa Police over an attempt to snatch a gold chain from a young woman in Wennappuwa on the morning of 8 March.
Police said the incident occurred on St. Anthony’s Mawatha when the suspect attempted to rob the gold chain worn by the woman.
The victim, an 18-year-old resident of Godella, had travelled from her home to the Thambaravila Cooperative outlet on a scooter-type motorcycle. The incident occurred while she was leaving the location.
Police said a youth from a nearby house rushed to assist the victim after hearing her screams. He chased the suspect, apprehended him, and handed him over to Police officers.
The arrested suspect is a 29-year-old permanent resident of the Kalutara area.
The gold chain involved in the incident, which has been handed over to the Wennappuwa Police, is estimated to be worth around Rs. 250,000. The victim sustained minor injuries during the incident.
Police also commended the actions of the young man who intervened, noting that a responsible citizen can act to prevent a crime by using the minimum force necessary to protect life or property. However, Police emphasised that suspects should not be assaulted or mistreated and must be handed over to law enforcement as soon as possible.
Police further advised the public to contact the Police emergency hotline 119 in such situations and to preserve evidence at the scene to assist investigations and judicial proceedings.
