Sri Lankan police probe attack on ex-aide

Colombo
Sri Lankan police are investigating a shooting that targeted the car of Thusitha Halloluwa, a former aide to ex-president Ranil Wickremesinghe. The incident took place Saturday night in Narahenpita, a suburb of Colombo.

Halloluwa, who served as Director General of Public Relations under Wickremesinghe, was traveling with his lawyer and another person when two people on a motorcycle blocked their vehicle and opened fire.

Though no one was injured, the attackers reportedly assaulted the three men before escaping. A confidential file carried by Halloluwa was also taken by the gunmen. The vehicle sustained damage from the bullets.

Police confirmed the shooting and said an investigation is ongoing. They have not released further details but noted the importance of the stolen document.

Halloluwa had recently been questioned by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) over a defamatory remark made against current President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. It is unclear whether the attack is linked to that case.

Gun violence has sharply risen in Sri Lanka in 2025. Police say more than 40 shootings have taken place since January, leading to about 30 deaths. Authorities blame most of the violence on gang wars connected to the illegal drug trade.

The recent attack adds to public concern about growing insecurity in the country. Officials are under pressure to act swiftly and curb the rising wave of violence, especially in urban areas like Colombo.

The motive behind Saturday’s attack is still unknown. Police are reviewing security footage and gathering evidence to identify the suspects.