Six individuals have been arrested over their alleged involvement with the notorious underworld figure Nadun Chinthaka Wickramaratne alias “Harak Kata”.

The arrest was made by the Colombo Crimes Division (CCD) in Weligama and Athurugiriya areas on Friday evening (Jan.13). They were identified as residents of Weligama, Dikwella and Athurugiriya areas, aged 24, 27, 32, 38, 39 and 43 years.

Police said the suspects were arrested on suspicion of being involved with the ill-famed criminal figure who is currently detained by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA).

“Harak Kata” was arrested in Madagascar along with his infamous accomplice Salindu Malshika alias “Kudu Salindu” on March 01, 2023, in a joint operation by the INTERPOL and Malagasy law enforcement authorities and Customs officials.

The duo was brought back to the island after Malagasy defence officials informed the Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry on March 08, 2023, of the arrest of eight suspects including the two Sri Lankan underworld figures.

“Harak Kata” had been wanted by Sri Lanka Police for his involvement in multiple murders and robberies as well as transnational drug trafficking.

Meanwhile, in September 2023, “Harak Kata” attempted a failed escape bid at the CID premises with the help of several police officers. One such Constable remains at large after fleeing the CID premises and now the police have offered a cash reward of Rs. 2.5 million for a tip-off about the said officer named Munipalage Ravindu Sandeepa Gunasekara.

Meanwhile, another Constable was arrested on September 30 on suspicion of his involvement in notorious underworld figure “Harak Kata’s” escape bid.