Police are investigating a possible link to imprisoned drug trafficker “Loku Patty” following a deadly shooting targeting a three-wheeler in Halpathota, Baddegama, this morning (27).

Two people were killed and another seriously injured after a group travelling in a car allegedly pursued the three-wheeler and opened fire with a T-56 assault rifle.

One of the deceased was identified as a 47-year-old woman known as “Kalu Nona,” a resident of Ambalangoda. Police said she was allegedly a key female figure in the drug distribution network linked to Loku Patty.

CCTV footage also showed a gunman pursuing the three-wheeler and repeatedly opening fire at its occupants. One woman is seen falling following the initial gunfire, while another attempts to flee. The gunman is then seen firing at both women before the attackers flee in their vehicle.

Police said the 47-year-old woman was facing a case before the Balapitiya Magistrate’s Court over the alleged possession of 21.710 grams of heroin. She had reportedly been ordered to appear at the Baddegama Divisional Crime Division on Sundays in connection with the case.

Police said she had travelled by a hired three-wheeler to report to the police and was returning when the shooting took place. The other woman injured in the attack is reportedly her mother.

The three-wheeler driver, a 40-year-old resident of Meetiyagoda was killed at the scene.

Police are also investigating whether the attack was carried out by a faction allegedly linked to “Karandeniya Sudda,” whom police describe as a major rival of Loku Patty and who is believed to be hiding overseas.

The suspected motive and identities of those responsible have not yet been uncovered, and the alleged links remain subject to investigation.

Further investigations are underway. 

Meanwhile, police statistics indicate that 39 shooting incidents have been reported so far this year, resulting in 21 deaths and 21 injuries.