Colombo Crime Division has apprehended three individuals involved in a daring extortion attempt targeting Mr. Janaka Ratnayake, the former Chairman of the Public Utility Commission. These criminals had posed as the notorious underworld figure Blumandel Sankha, who is reportedly residing in Dubai, and threatened Mr. Ratnayake with an alleged contract killing.
The suspects, two residents from Rambukkana and one from Kurunegala, were arrested during a raid conducted in Rambukkana Kotawella. The police also located the vehicle used by the impostors to collect the ransom, which had been rented for their nefarious scheme.
The elaborate plot involved a phone call to Mr. Ratnayake, where the impersonator claimed to be Blumandel Sankha and demanded 15 lakh rupees to spare his life, citing an alleged 80 lakh rupee contract on Mr. Ratnayake’s life. Fearful for his safety, Mr. Ratnayake complied and handed over the money to the culprits in Kirulapana.
Prompt action by law enforcement authorities led to the arrest of the impersonators, ensuring that justice will prevail in this extortion case. The suspects will face legal consequences for their criminal activities, and investigations are ongoing to uncover any potential accomplices involved in the scheme.
