The prime suspect in the killing of Kelaniya Pradeshiya Sabha member Hasitha Madawala has been arrested at Bandaranaike International Airport while attempting to leave the country, the Defence Ministry said.

The suspect, Rangan, who was arrested last night, had revealed during interrogations that he was planning to board a flight to Singapore, police spokesman SSP Prishantha Jayakody said.

According to information uncovered  following interrogation, four other suspects have been arrested over the murder from Kelaniya and Kiribathgoda areas while one of them, ‘Singapore Sarath’ is said to be a relative of Rangan.

The firearm and motorcycle used by the suspects to carry out the murder have been recovered while a magazine, two bullets, two bike helmets, a T81 rifle, 42 ammo and a three-wheeler found in their possession have also been taken into custody.

It has been reported that residents in the area have informed security forces that the chief suspect, Rangan is a supporter of Minister Mervyn Silva.

Kelaniya Pradeshiya Sabha member Hasitha Madawala was killed following a shooting on January 05 when two gunmen had arrived on a motorbike and opened fire at him near his residence in Waragoda.

Investigations were launched led by an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) of the Criminal Investigations Department.

Madawala was among several members of the Kelaniya Pradeshiya Sabha who along with its Chairman took a stand against alleged corruption and irregularities taking place in the Kelaniya electorate.