Following an order from the Matara Magistrate’s Court, the acting OIC of Weligama Police, who was released on bail yesterday (4), is now giving a statement to the CID regarding a shooting incident on 31 December 2023.

The court order was issued in connection with the incident near the W15 Hotel in Palana, Weligama. The acting OIC was arrested and later granted bail.

The court also ordered the arrest of suspended IGP Deshabandu Tennakoon over the incident. However, police have been unable to locate him to proceed with the court order.

The shooting occurred during a police raid, resulting in the death of a Police Sergeant attached to the CCD and injuries to another officer. The incident unfolded in the early hours of 31 December when Weligama Police pursued a van linked to the attack, leading to an exchange of gunfire.