Former Minister Douglas Devananda arrested by CID

Former Minister Douglas Devananda has been arrested by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) today (December 26) in connection with an investigation conducted by its Homicide Investigation Division.

The arrest was made in relation to an ongoing investigation into a firearm that had been lawfully issued to him by the Sri Lanka Army for personal use in 2001. The pistol type firearm was recovered in 2019 following a statement made by organised criminal Makandure Madush during questioning.

Based on the information provided, the firearm was discovered hidden in a forested area near a culvert in the Weliveriya area. Subsequent examination of the serial number confirmed that the weapon had been issued to Mr. Devananda.

During questioning by the CID, the former minister failed to provide a clear explanation as to how the firearm went missing or how it came into the possession of others. Accordingly, he was arrested, a senior police officer stated.

The arrested former minister is due to be produced before the Gampaha Magistrate’s Court on December 27, 2025.

Further investigations are being carried out by the Homicide Investigation Division of the Criminal Investigation Department.

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