A violent New Year has raised fresh fears that Sri Lanka’s deadly gun culture may tighten its grip, as organized crime, narcotics networks, and overseas handlers continue to challenge law enforcement across the island.
The year 2025 ended with a grim milestone, recording a sharp rise in gun violence across Sri Lanka, with deaths and injuries surpassing figures from the previous year. That violence spilled into the New Year when a deadly shooting linked to rival gangs shattered celebrations in the Nawagamuwa area.
A 20 year old man was shot dead while attending a New Year’s Eve party at a rented house, while two others were injured in the same attack. The incident underscored fears that the cycle of underworld violence may continue into 2026 without decisive disruption.
By the end of 2025, police recorded 114 shooting incidents islandwide, resulting in 60 deaths and 57 injuries. More than 73 percent of these shootings were directly linked to organized crime syndicates and drug trafficking operations, according to police data.
Investigators said most attacks were allegedly orchestrated by drug traffickers operating either from overseas or from within the prison system. In comparison, 2024 recorded 103 shooting incidents, resulting in 61 deaths and 47 injuries. Of those incidents, 56 were related to organized crime, causing 45 deaths, while 16 deaths stemmed from personal disputes.
Although the total number of shootings declined slightly in 2024, the number of fatalities remained comparable, highlighting the lethality of such attacks.
The first shooting of the new year occurred on the Korathota Manikgara Road in Nawagamuwa. Police said suspects arrived on a motorbike and a three wheeler, opened fire on residents, and fled the scene. One victim from Borella was shot near a bathroom and died on the spot, while two others from Ambalantota and Dematagoda were hospitalized.
Fifteen 9mm bullet casings were recovered, with investigators estimating the shooting took place between 9.30 pm and 10.00 pm. Police believe the victims had moved into the rented house about six weeks earlier and were celebrating the New Year when attacked.
Commenting on the situation, Police Media Spokesperson ASP F U Wootler said shootings remain a major challenge, largely driven by drug trafficking. He stated that over 70 percent of suspects involved in recent incidents have already been arrested.
Between January and December 2025, police checked more than eight million individuals and arrested 6,821 suspects. Authorities also seized 1,797 kilograms of heroin and 3,691 kilograms of ice.
ASP Wootler said operations will continue this year with tri forces and intelligence support.
