Gang Violence: Two Shootings Rock Hanwella and Meegoda in One Night

COLOMBO (News 1st); A wave of gang-related violence shook the suburbs of Hanwella and Meegoda last night, with two separate shootings reported within hours of each other. 

Police say the incidents are linked to ongoing disputes between organized criminal groups.

The first shooting occurred in the Pahathgama area of Thunnana, Hanwella, where two individuals arrived on a motorcycle and opened fire near a residence on the Eriyagolla Road. 

According to police, the gunman dismounted approximately 20 meters from the house and approached on foot, while the rider remained with the vehicle.

At the time of the attack, a resident had stepped outside the house and was struck by gunfire. The victim sustained injuries to his leg and was rushed to hospital for treatment.

Investigations have revealed a possible connection between this shooting and the recent assassination of former Homagama Pradeshiya Sabha member Shanta Mudunkotuwa, also known as "Bana Manthri." 

Mudunkotuwa was allegedly targeted by Lalith Kannangara aka 'Bus Lalith', a notorious underworld figure currently residing overseas.

Police sources now confirm that the individual injured in last night’s Hanwella shooting is the father of Kanda Uda Iresh, a close associate of Lalith Kannangara, also known as "Bus Lalith." 

At the time of the incident, Iresh was reportedly inside the house, in the bathroom.

The attackers are believed to have used a pistol in the shooting.

Authorities suspect that the shooting was orchestrated by Gagana, a relative of the slain Bana MP, and Hadapangoda Hadaya, both believed to be retaliating for Mudunkotuwa’s murder.

Just half an hour after the Hanwella incident, another shooting was reported in Nedun Uyana, Meegoda, several kilometers away. 

In this case, two individuals on a motorcycle opened fire in front of a house. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

Police have yet to identify the suspects involved in the Meegoda shooting.

Six specialized police teams have been deployed to investigate both incidents.

Authorities are treating the shootings as part of a broader pattern of escalating violence between rival criminal factions.

“I heard three gunshots near the window. Then I heard shouting from the boys,” said a local resident, describing the terrifying moments during the Hanwella shooting.