The Supreme Court of Sri Lanka has upheld the death sentences imposed on six individuals, including former Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Vaas Gunawardena and his son Ravindu Gunawardena, for their involvement in the high-profile kidnapping and murder of millionaire businessman Mohammad Shyam.
On August 8, 2024, Supreme Court Justice Achala Vengappuli, with judges Vijith Malalgoda, Prithi Padman Surasena, Gamini Amarasekara, and Arjuna Obeysekera, confirmed the death sentences originally handed down by the Colombo High Court. The decision follows a lengthy appeals process and dismisses the defendants’ claims that the punishment was unlawful.
The case revolves around the abduction and murder of Mohammad Shyam, who was kidnapped from his Bambalapitiya residence on May 22, 2013. His body was subsequently discovered in Dompe. The Colombo High Court sentenced Vaas Gunawardena, his son Ravindu, Sub-Inspector Indika Bamunusinghe, and police constables Gamini Sarachchandra, Priyantha Sanjeeva, and Calum Ranga to death on November 27, 2015.
The defendants had appealed the sentences, arguing that the High Court’s judgment was flawed. However, the Supreme Court found no reasonable grounds to overturn the verdict, affirming the original death sentences.
Background and Legal Proceedings:
- Defendants: Vaas Gunawardena, Ravindu Gunawardena, Sub-Inspector Indika Bamunusinghe, and police constables Gamini Sarachchandra, Priyantha Sanjeeva, and Calum Ranga.
- Charges: Kidnapping and murder of Mohammad Shyam.
- Original Sentencing: November 27, 2015.
- Appeals Hearing: Began in 2017 and concluded in August 2024.
The Supreme Court’s decision marks the end of a protracted legal battle that has drawn considerable public attention due to the gravity of the charges and the profiles of those involved. The ruling reinforces the judicial system’s stance on upholding severe penalties for serious crimes.
