A notorious gang leader has been killed following a shooting inside a courthouse in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Police report that the assailant, disguised as a lawyer, used a revolver smuggled into the courthouse hidden inside a hollowed-out book by an accomplice, a female suspect who is currently at large.

The victim, Sanjeewa Kumara Samararathne, also known as Ganemulle Sanjeewa, was being escorted to the court for legal proceedings when the shooting occurred. He was facing charges in multiple murder cases. After being shot, Samararathne was swiftly taken to a hospital but was declared dead upon arrival.

The assailant, who fled the scene, was later apprehended by police. Although he was identified by various names by both authorities and local media, police confirmed his capture. Authorities have also identified the female accomplice as 25-year-old Pinpura Dewage Ishara Sewwandi. A reward has been offered for information leading to her arrest. Additionally, two individuals—a police officer and a van driver—have been arrested for allegedly aiding the suspects.

The incident is part of a troubling wave of violence linked to gang rivalry, and it has prompted lawmakers to address the ongoing issue of gang-related crime in Sri Lanka. Opposition members have expressed concerns over the severity of the situation, while Health and Mass Media Minister Nalinda Jayatissa reiterated the government’s commitment to combating organized crime.

In light of the courthouse shooting, authorities are reassessing security measures. The government has announced new protocols, including the deployment of armed guards when high-risk individuals are brought to court, a departure from the usual policy where armed security personnel are not permitted in courtrooms.

This incident is among several others connected to gang violence, with at least nine fatalities reported this year due to gang-related shootings.