Nugegoda Police arrest burglary suspect, recover stolen goods

By H.M. Dharmapala   

The Nugegoda Division Crime Investigation Unit arrested a suspect wanted in connection with a series of robberies and burglaries in the Nugegoda, Mirihana, and Udahamulla areas. Police recovered a stash of jewelery, local and foreign currency believed to have been stolen by the suspect.   

The recovered stolen goods are estimated to be worth over LKR 600,000.   

Police identified the suspect as a 33-year-old drug addict. He was found in possession of 2.24 grams of methamphetamine (ICE) during his arrest.    Acting on intelligence, officers raided an area near the Udahamulla railway station where the suspect was known to frequent. During questioning, the suspect confessed to his involvement in several burglaries and other crimes.   

According to police, the suspect sold the stolen jewelery at pawn shops in Minuwangoda and Maradanahamulla areas of the Gampaha District, likely for a fraction of their value.   
Fearing his involvement would be exposed if he tried to exchange them, the suspect allegedly hid the foreign currency bills at a house in Nugegoda.   

The suspect was brought before the Nugegoda Magistrate’s Court yesterday. 

OIC Crime Investigation Unit, CI J.K.G. Hewage, is conducting further investigations under the instructions of SSP J.P.S. Jayamaha.