State-owned newspaper Dinamina reported today that the Rakwana Police have arrested three suspects, including two three-wheeler driver, in connection with the robbery and murder of an 83-year-old retired school principal in Pelawatte, Godokawela.
Investigators revealed that the primary motive for the crime was robbery, as one of the suspects sought to obtain money to celebrate his child’s upcoming birthday.
The victim, 83-year-old Wimalani Mallika, was found dead on 21.08.2026.
Neighbours had alerted police after noticing a coconut climber wandering near the house on the day of the murder. Police subsequently reviewed local CCTV footage, which led to the identification and arrest of the main suspect. During interrogation, officers searched the suspect’s house and recovered a ring belonging to the retired principal. The suspect further revealed during questioning that he had pawned her stolen gold necklace for Rs 90,000.
The suspects were produced before Pelmadulla Magistrate Samira Silva, who ordered that they be remanded in custody pending further legal proceedings.
