Supreme Court confirms death sentence for ex-DIG Vass Gunawardena and four others
File Photo
The Supreme Court of Sri Lanka has confirmed the death sentence for former Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Vass Gunawardena and four others for the abduction and murder of businessman Mohamed Siyam on May 22, 2013.
The decision was announced today (December 20) at the Colombo High Court. Former DIG Vass Gunawardena, his son Ravindu Gunawardena, and the other defendants were brought to court by prison officials.
Colombo High Court Judge Aditya Patabendige informed the defendants that their appeals had been rejected, and the death sentence handed down by a three-member High Court bench was upheld.
The defendants’ lawyer questioned the absence of a specific implementation date for the death sentence, noting its importance if the defendants sought a presidential pardon. Judge Patabendige explained that setting the date for carrying out the sentence is under the Supreme Court’s authority and not within his power to decide.
Latest Headlines in Sri Lanka
- Mervyn Silva remanded until March 17, 2025 March 6, 2025
- Sri Lanka Police seek public help to locate former IGP Deshabandu Tennakoon March 6, 2025
- Audit reveals Sri Lanka paid Rs. 3 Billion extra for Indian buses March 6, 2025
- Sri Lanka President calls for tougher action on tax collection March 6, 2025
- Former Minister Mervyn Silva arrested by CID March 6, 2025
