Manamperi Wanted Over Rice Truck Heist

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Colombo High Court issued an arrest warrant for Sampath Manamperi, who is currently detained over a separate drug-related case, instructing that he be produced before court in connection with a 2009 armed robbery involving a Tamil businessman.

The warrant was issued by High Court Judge Rashantha Godawela, following a hearing into the case where Manamperi and three others are accused of threatening a rice transporter and stealing a truck loaded with rice, cash, and a mobile phone near the Narahenpita junction on August 12, 2009. 

The suspects allegedly posed as police officers during the robbery.

The stolen rice was valued at approximately Rs. 1 million.

The Attorney General has filed seven indictments against the four accused, including Manamperi.

AtTuesday’s (30) hearing, Manamperi’s legal counsel informed the court that his client is currently in detention over a separate case involving the discovery of two containers of raw materials suspected to be used in the production of crystal methamphetamine (Ice) in the Middeniya area. 

The judge ordered a report on Manamperi’s status to be submitted at the next hearing.

Another accused in the rice truck robbery case, Neranjan Perera, also failed to appear in court. 

His lawyer stated that Perera is currently in remand custody following an order by the Matara Magistrate’s Court in connection with possession of Ice.

The Colombo High Court emphasized the seriousness of both cases and instructed that the suspects be produced without delay.