Six of Sri Lanka’s most wanted underworld figures, including Kehelbaddara Padme and Commando Salinda, were arrested in Jakarta following a week-long joint operation by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and Indonesian Police, with support from Indian intelligence and INTERPOL.
Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala told a special media briefing yesterday (28) that the suspects would be brought back to Sri Lanka within the next two to three days.
Among notable others arrested are Backhoe Saman, Thambili Lahiru, Panadura Nilanga, and a female associate, who is said to be the wife of Backhoe Saman. Five of them are currently subject to INTERPOL Red Notices.
“This is the first time in history that such a large group of high-profile underworld leaders has been arrested at once,” IGP Priyantha Weerasooriya said, adding that the operation had been made possible by the authority now granted to the Police Department. He expressed gratitude to the Indonesian Embassy for its support.
Minister Wijepala said that the arrests marked a turning point in tackling organised crime. “No one is above the law. Politicians once protected these criminals, but we are dismantling those links. Investigations are also underway into the assets of these individuals, many of which are politically connected,” he said.
The Minister announced that a special court would soon be set up to expedite cases involving organised criminals. He said that red warrants had already been issued for nearly 75 suspects, with more than 20 already repatriated to Sri Lanka.
IGP Weerasooriya revealed that Sri Lankan underworld networks continued to operate out of countries such as Dubai, Oman, Russia, Belarus, and France, and said steps are being taken to act against them as well.
“The message is clear,” Minister Wijepala said adding, “The law applies equally to all, whether from the underworld, politics, law enforcement, or government. We will not allow anyone to stand above it.”
by Norman Palihawadane, Hemantha Randunu and Chaminda Silva ✍️
