Heroin Courier Tied to Kehelbaddara Padme Arrested

COLOMBO (News 1st); A man believed to be a close associate of notorious crime figure Kehelbaddara Padme has been arrested while transporting heroin in a vehicle through the Seeduwa area.

The suspect, identified as Tilina Sampath Hapuarachchi, also known by the alias Walaskata, was apprehended following an investigation led by the Western Province North Crimes Division. 

Authorities seized the vehicle used in the operation and recovered 550 grams of heroin concealed within.

Police stated that Walaskata is not only linked to Kehelbaddara Padme but also to another underworld figure known as Commando Salinda.

The arrest was made based on intelligence obtained from Gampaha Dewa, who was previously detained at Katunayake Airport.