The Anuradhapura Headquarters Police have launched a full-scale investigation into the brutal attack on a female doctor at the Anuradhapura Teaching Hospital. The suspect allegedly broke into the hospital’s medical hostel, held a knife to the doctor’s neck, and committed rape and serious sexual abuse before stealing her mobile phone and fleeing the scene.
Following an intense search operation conducted by officers from Anuradhapura and Galnewa Police Stations, along with the Anuradhapura Special Task Force, the 34-year-old suspect from Ela Road, Galnewa, was apprehended in a nearby reserve.
The police have seized key evidence, including the knife used in the attack, the suspect’s clothing, and other belongings. Investigators are still working to recover the stolen mobile phone, which the suspect took after forcing the victim to reveal her password.
Authorities have also uncovered links between the suspect and similar crimes in other police divisions, and he is set to be handed over to the Anuradhapura Headquarters Police for further investigations.
According to the victim’s statement, she had returned to her official residence and locked the door when an unknown person knocked and called out, saying:
“Open the door, I have escaped from the army, don’t be afraid. I am not going to do anything.”
Believing she was not in danger, she opened the door, at which point the suspect brandished a sharp weapon, overpowered her, and committed the assault.
He then forcibly took her phone, threatened her for the password, and accessed her personal photos. Before leaving, he warned her not to tell anyone, threatening to publicly release the photos if she reported the crime.
The case remains under intense police investigation, as officers work to determine the full extent of the suspect’s criminal history.
