Mirigama Triple Homicide: Suspect Arrested, IGP Commends Officers

COLOMBO (News 1st) - Three people were found dead inside a house in Kithalawalana, Maladeniya on Sunday (19).

Police suspect robbery as the motive and have arrested a relative of the homeowner.

The deceased were identified as Lionel Padmasiri (78), Duliawathi Jayalath Menike (80), and their son, a 42-year-old man with special needs.

Police officers on patrol in Nalla stopped a man riding a bicycle. A search revealed jewelry, credit cards, and Rs. 250,000 in his possession. A receipt found in his bag led officers to a house address.

Upon arrival at the address listed on the receipt, officers found the door open. Inside, they discovered the bodies of the three family members. All three are believed to have been strangled.

Attanagalla Acting Magistrate arrived at the scene on Sunday (19) afternoon to initiate investigations.

Police confirmed the arrested suspect is a relative of the homeowner and a resident of Bangadeniya, Chilaw.

Police suspect the individual broke into the house, stole valuables, and then killed the occupants to eliminate witnesses.

Inspector General of Police Deshbandu Tennakoon commended the officers involved in apprehending the suspect and expressed his intention to reward them in the future.

He also expressed concerns about drug and alcohol abuse as contributing factors to crime.