At least two persons have been injured and hospitalized following a shooting incident at Akarawita in Gampaha.

Police said that two unidentified assailants on a motorcycle had opened fire on them before fleeing the scene.

The incident occurred at around 6:45 p.m. today (8).

The attack targeted two individuals at a motorcycle spare parts shop, police said. 

The injured victims, aged 30 and 34, have been identified as Chamara Nadi Sadaruwan, the owner of the shop, and Asitha Devinda, the assistant at the shop. 

They are residents of the Katugastara and Yakkala areas and have been admitted to the Gampaha Hospital for treatment.

Reports claim that Chamara Nadi Sadaruwan, the owner of the shop, is allegedly involved in drug trafficking activities and has connections to the notorious underworld figure known as “Kehelbaddara Padme.” 

It is also reported that Sadaruwan had been threatened by Thammita Sumith, who runs drug operations for the slain underworld figure “Ganemulla Sanjeewa,” who was fatally shot dead at the Aluthkade No. 05 Magistrate’s Court on February 19, 2025. 

Sadaruwan was allegedly threatened and told to stop his drug-related activities, according to police.

Initial findings suggest that the shooting was carried out under the direction of Thammita Sumith in connection to this dispute. 

The shooting is believed to have been carried out using a 9mm pistol, said police.

Gampaha Police are conducting further investigations to apprehend the suspects.