Police investigations have unveiled a shocking twist in the case involving the attack on former Anuradhapura District parliamentarian Uddika Premaratne’s vehicle. It appears that the incident was not the result of external threats but rather a staged event orchestrated by Premaratne himself, allegedly with the assistance of an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) in the area.
According to Police Spokesman DIG Nihal Thalduwa, the suspects linked to the incident have been identified through thorough investigations conducted by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).
The incident took place on September 17, 2023, when a group of unidentified gunmen reportedly fired shots at Premaratne’s car shortly after his return to his residence in Anuradhapura around 10:35 p.m. Fortunately, Premaratne escaped unharmed, but the left rear door glass of his vehicle sustained damage from the gunfire, believed to have been caused by a pistol.
Initial investigations were launched by the Anuradhapura police, with additional security measures implemented near the MP’s residence by deploying Special Task Force (STF) personnel. However, the case was later transferred to the CID for further examination.
In a surprising turn of events, Premaratne resigned from his position as a Member of Parliament on February 27, 2024, representing the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP). Subsequently, S.C. Muthukumarana of SLPP was appointed to fill the vacant MP seat.
Reports emerged later indicating that Premaratne had traveled to Canada, allegedly seeking political asylum. However, Premaratne denied these claims, stating that he was actually awaiting a work visa in Canada.
These developments have sent shockwaves through the political landscape, raising questions about the motivations behind the staged attack and the subsequent actions of the former MP.
