A disturbing investigation reveals how alleged abuse was carried out under the cover of wealth, raising urgent concerns about child safety and law enforcement vigilance.
Wealth and power can sometimes conceal deeply troubling crimes within society.
Fifty year old Senbakuttige Kithsiri, a businessman from the Maharagama area, was ordered to be remanded in custody until the 20th of this month by Horana Chief Magistrate K.P.R. Lakmini Widhanagamage on the 8th. He is accused of renting a house in the Bellapitiya area of Horana and committing acts of abuse against several young boys.
According to court proceedings, the children brought to the rented house, arranged through an associate, included that friend’s 13 year old son along with other boys of a similar age. It was revealed that these children had allegedly been subjected to abuse over a period of three months. The 13 year old boy who was with the suspect at the time of arrest had reportedly been abused approximately twice a week. The child has since been admitted to the Horana District General Hospital for medical examinations with the assistance of the Children and Women’s Bureau of the Horana Headquarters Police.
The incident came to light following information provided by a resident. On the 7th of this month, when the suspect had brought the child to the rented premises, a neighbor alerted the 119 police emergency hotline. Police officers responded immediately, entered the premises, and arrested the suspect. Residents have stated that the suspect had been bringing boys to the location over an extended period. Police also reported that the suspect behaved aggressively and issued verbal threats at the time of arrest.
Further investigations are being conducted under the direction of Horana Headquarters Police Inspector Ranga Perera. Attorney Nalin Imbulgoda appeared on behalf of the suspect in court. Authorities are continuing inquiries to determine whether there are additional victims and how the alleged activities remained undetected for several months.
The case has raised serious concerns about child protection and community awareness, highlighting the need for continued vigilance to ensure the safety and well being of children.
