Two underworld figures were shot dead in a shootout with police in Kurunegala, Badagamuwa forest reserve, Police spokesman told Ada Derana. The two underworld members were said to be involved in 28 suspected murder cases and 15 criminal acts, the spokesman added.

The two men had been arrested yesterday by the Pannala police and subsequently had escaped from police custody. Police spokesman added that Police had learnt that the two were hiding in the Badagamuwa forest reserve and attempted to arrest them when the shootout occurred.