During police interrogation, the owner of the Athurugiriya tattoo parlor revealed critical details about the murder of Club Wasantha. The suspect admitted to facilitating a contract arranged from Dubai, stating, "I orchestrated Wasantha's presence at the tattoo shop's opening ceremony where he was fatally attacked. For this, I received Rs. 10 lakh from Dubai." This confession has added a new layer of complexity to the case, raising questions about the broader network involved.
Suspected Role of Kanjipani Imran
Investigators suspect that underworld figure Kanjipani Imran, believed to be in Europe, masterminded the attack. At the crime scene, police discovered T-56 ammunition casings marked with the initials "KPI," which are suspected to refer to Kanjipani Imran. This connection is now a key focus of the ongoing investigation.
The Tragic Incident
The shooting occurred around 10:00 AM during the grand opening of a tattoo studio in central Athurugiriya. Club Wasantha attended the event with his wife, Nayana, and popular singer K. Sujeewa. Shortly after their arrival, two masked gunmen in a white car stormed the venue and opened fire using T-56 rifles. The attack resulted in the deaths of Wasantha and his wife, while five others, including K. Sujeewa, sustained serious injuries.
The Escape and Forensic Findings
After the attack, the assailants fled in the same white car they had arrived in, which was later found abandoned in Korathota, Nawagamuwa. A review of CCTV footage revealed that the suspects switched to a white van after abandoning the car. Investigators also discovered that the car had been fitted with fake number plates, complicating the trail.
Law Enforcement Response
In response to the shooting, the Athurugiriya Police, Nugegoda Crime Division, and Police Special Task Force launched extensive investigations. Evidence uncovered during these operations revealed that the tattoo parlor owner received Rs. 10 million from Dubai for organizing the event. The financial transaction and its connection to the murder plot are now central to the inquiry.
Club Wasantha’s Background and Alleged Connections
Club Wasantha, a prominent figure in Colombo's nightlife, was the owner of the Sunhill Hotel Group and other businesses, including employment agencies overseas. He was known for his connections with influential figures such as politicians, sports personalities, and entertainers.
Recent reports suggest that Wasantha had links to major underworld figures in Sri Lanka, including the notorious Makandure Madush. He was reportedly invited to a birthday party for Madush in Dubai but could not attend due to travel issues. These associations have led investigators to explore the possibility of rivalries or disputes contributing to the motive behind his murder.
Conclusion
The killing of Club Wasantha has sent shockwaves through Sri Lanka, with investigators uncovering a web of underworld connections and financial dealings tied to the incident. As the police continue their efforts to unravel the full scope of this heinous crime, the confession from the tattoo parlor owner and the suspected involvement of Kanjipani Imran provide critical leads. The tragedy has not only highlighted the dark undercurrents of organized crime but has also left a significant void in the business and entertainment sectors where Wasantha was a prominent figure.
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