Former cricketer gunned down in Ambalangoda

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya

Several police teams are investigating the shooting in Ambalangoda where former Sri Lanka cricketer Dhammika Niroshana was fatally shot.

Police said that unidentified men on a motorcycle shot Niroshana with a repeater weapon at his residence on Tuesday night (16) while he was with his wife and two children.

Niroshana, 41, was a former Sri Lanka cricketer who debuted for Sri Lanka Under-19s in 2000 and played Under-19 Test and ODI cricket for two years. 

He attended Sri Devananda College, Ambalangoda and played for Chilaw Marians CC, Galle CC and Singha SC. Niroshana retired from cricket in 2004.

Though he did not play for the senior national team, Niroshana reportedly played alongside Sri Lanka cricketers such as Angelo Mathews, Upul Tharanga and Farveez Maharoof at Under-19 and First-Class levels.

Initial investigations revealed that Niroshana had been working in Dubai and returned to Sri Lanka two months ago.

Police Spokesman DIG Nihal Thalduwa said Niroshana is not identified as a suspect in any criminal activity but investigations are ongoing to determine any underworld connections.

Police suspect Niroshana’s killing may be linked to retaliation for a previous shooting incident in Ambalangoda.

It was also reported that Niroshana was acquainted with underworld figure ‘Suranga Manawadu,’ reportedly operating in Dubai.

Further investigations are being conducted by Ambalangoda Police and the Galle Crime Division under the direct supervision of SSP Elpitiya Division.