Police officers from the Matara Division Criminal Investigation Unit recovered a 9mm pistol, a magazine, and 10 bullets from the home of rap artist and television actor Shan Putha, located at Araliya Uyana in Meegoda, on Friday.
The weapon and ammunition had been stolen from the Kotawila Police Station in Matara by a police constable, who is now in custody, according to the police.
The constable, who had also served as Shan Putha’s manager, was arrested while working at the Mannar Police Station. The stolen pistol and bullets were taken on March 6, while the constable was stationed at the Matara Kotawila Police and working with its Narcotics Division.
Following the allegations, the constable was transferred from the Narcotics Division to Mannar on March 8.
Investigations revealed that, just two days before his transfer, the constable had stolen the pistol from the Matara Kotawila Police Station.
The suspect constable had known Shan Putha during his time at the Kotawila Police and the two of them had become friends. The stolen pistol, live rounds, and magazine had been handed over to Shan Putha before the constable’s transfer to Mannar.
Upon learning of the incident, Senior Deputy Inspector General of Police Nishantha Soysa of the Matara District initiated an investigation, leading to the constable’s arrest. During questioning, the constable admitted to handing over the stolen items to Shan Putha.
Officers from the Matara Division Criminal Investigation Unit and Homagama Police subsequently surrounded Shan Putha’s home in Meegoda, from where they recovered the stolen firearm, magazine and bullets.
The police are now investigating whether the weapon was intended for any criminal activity.
The investigation is being conducted under the supervision of Senior Deputy Inspector General of Police Kithsiri Jayalath and Deputy Inspector General of Police Nishantha Soysa.
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