President Maithripala Sirisena’s brother dies

Priyantha Sirisena, the brother of President Maithripala Sirisena, who was treated at a private hospital in Colombo after an axe attack died this morning (28) at the age of 40.

Priyantha, who is also known as “Weli Raju,” is a businessman predominantly engaged in sand mining. He is a younger brother of President Sirisena, who is currently on a four-day state visit to China.  

Priyantha was first rushed to the Polonnaruwa General hospital following the attack and later airlifted to the private hospital on 26 March. 

On the same day, the police arrested an individual who is said to have committed the crime.

34-year old, Don Ishara Lakmal Saputhanthri, has committed the crime in retribution when the victim had yelled at his (Saputhanthri’s) parents using foul language, according to the police.

The investigating teams have also found the weapon allegedly used by the suspect from near the crime scene in Hathare Ela area in Bendiwewa.

Police Spokesman ASP Ruwan Gunasekara said that a special investigation into the incident is ongoing, led by the Polonnaruwa Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP).

The autopsy of Priyantha Sirisena will be carried out today.