The Kalutara Division criminal investigations unit yesterday arrested five suspects who were allegedly involved in a series of robberies in the area, police said.

Police spokesman Ajith Rohana said the suspects were arrested on charges of robbing cash, jewellery and other valuables by threatening victims with firearms.

Police said the suspects were arrested on information received by the police following raids carried out in the Welipenna, Uragasmanhandiya and Homagama areas.

Police also recovered two locally-manufactured firearms, two foreign-made firearms, a 12-Bore gun, a hand grenade, around 12 pounds of gold jewelry, 3 motorcycles and a three-wheeler from the arrested suspects.

Police identified the suspects as residents from Uragasmanhandiya, Homagama and Dharga Town. They are to be produced before the Matugama Magistrate today.(DS)