Interpol-Backed Raid Nets Sri Lanka’s Most Wanted Gang Leaders

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka’s Minister of Public Security, Ananda Wijepala, announced the arrest of five notorious organized crime leaders in a joint international operation. The crackdown comes as part of the National People's Power (NPP) government's commitment to dismantling the nexus between politics and criminal networks.

The arrests, which included infamous figures such as Kehelbaddara Padme, Commando Salindu, and Backhoe Saman, were the result of a seven-day coordinated effort involving the Sri Lanka Police, Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Indonesian Police, and Interpol. Intelligence agencies from both Sri Lanka and Indonesia played a crucial role in tracking and apprehending the suspects.

Minister Wijepala emphasized that the NPP government has granted law enforcement agencies full independence to act without political interference. “For too long, organized crime thrived under political protection. That era is over,” he stated. “All individuals, regardless of status, are equal before the law.”

The operation marks a milestone in the government’s broader strategy to combat bribery, corruption, drug trafficking, and gang-related violence. Authorities are currently investigating the financial and political links of the arrested individuals, with further actions expected in the coming weeks.

“This is not just about arrests,” Wijepala added. “It’s about breaking the cycle of impunity and proving that no one is above the law.”