Attack near Kandana Public Market, a gunman shot former private secretary to the late Minister Mangala Samaraweera, Sameera Manahara—also known as “Weli Sameera” and his brother-in-law Upali Kulawardena were shot, the latter fatally, yesterday morning. The victims were travelling in a car. The killer and his accomplice were riding a motorcycle.
Police investigations have revealed that the attack was orchestrated by a notorious drug trafficking gang based in Kandana. Intelligence sources indicated that three gang leaders responsible for commissioning the hit are currently hiding in Dubai. The shooting is believed to be a contract killing involving hired underworld gunmen.
The shooting occurred around 10 a.m. as the two men were returning home from a fitness centre, approximately 500 meters from their residence. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene, with multiple rounds fired from a T-56 assault rifle by the assailants.
Both victims were rushed to Ragama Hospital, where Upali succumbed to his injuries. Hospital sources confirmed that Sameera’s injuries, though serious, were not life-threatening.
Authorities have yet to confirm whether the motive behind the attack is related to a drug dispute or a personal matter. Multiple police teams, including the Kandana Police and Peliyagoda Crimes Division, are actively investigating the case.
Sameera Manahara had long served as private secretary to the late Minister Mangala Samaraweera.
After leaving politics post-marriage, he entered the business sector, mainly in construction and supplying sand and metal for projects like the Port City development—a venture reportedly supported by Minister Samaraweera during his tenure.
By Hemantha Randunu and Norman Palihawadane 