Saman Perera, the leader of the 'Ape Janabala Pakshaya', has been remanded until August 31. He was arrested yesterday by the Tangalle Police on the allegations of harbouring suspects connected to a murder. According to reports, the murder had taken place on 5 June in Kudawella.

Perera more popularly known as ‘Royal Beach Saman’ owing to the fact he owns the Royal Beach Hotel in Induruwa is considered an underworld figure by law enforcement officials. Perera has been arrested and remanded on several previous occasions over murder charges.

Perera is also accused of the killing of former Balapitiya Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman Stanley Thabrew and his son Terry Thabrew.