Gampola Thera’s killing:

Two Army deserters arrested

Asela KURULUWANSA

Two Army deserters alleged to be supporters of defeated Presidential candidate Sarath Fonseka were arrested on suspicion by Gampola police yesterday in connection with the killing of two persons including the Viharadhipathi of the Gampola Thambiligale Sri Bodhirukkarama Viharaya.

Police are also looking for two other suspects including a soldier in service allegedly involved in the killing.

The main suspect who was earlier taken in from Warakagoda in Thebuwana, Kalutara has served in the army for 12 years, police investigations revealed.

Viharadhipathi Ven. Matara Wimalananda Thera, 78, and one Vasanthakumara of Kurunduwatta, said to be a UPFA supporter died when a grenade was hurled at the temple on the day after the election.

Another seven UPFA supporters injured were admitted to hospital. The two suspects arrested were due to be produced in court yesterday.

A police team led by Gampola police HQI Jaliya Heenkenda is conducting further investigations directed by senior DIG Gamini Navaratne, DIG Pujith Jayasundera and SSP Roshan Fernando.