Several high-profile arrests were expected following the interrogation of Sampath Manamperi, accused of concealing two containers of raw materials allegedly used in producing crystal methamphetamine and linked to underworld figure Kehelbaddara Padme, senior police sources said yesterday.
Manamperi, who surrendered to court on Wednesday (17) through his lawyers, is being questioned under a seven-day detention order granted by the Walasmulla Magistrate’s Court. He was remanded after the seizure of a stock of chemicals in Middeniya, believed to be intended for crystal methamphetamine production.
On the orders of the IGP, teams from the Criminal Investigation Department and the Western Province North Crimes Division, in addition to the Narcotics Bureau, have been given clearance to grill Manamperi.
Police said several individuals who had provided refuge and other support to the suspect while he was on the run were likely to be arrested shortly. Further arrests are also expected based on information retrieved from his phone records.The case is due to be taken up again on 24 September.
By Norman Palihawadane and Hemantha Randunu 