Suspect in double murder arrested upon returning to Sri Lanka from Maldives

Jul 5, 2026, 9:38 AM

A 23-year-old suspect wanted for the double murder of a Sri Lankan lawyer and his wife has been arrested upon returning to his home country from the Maldives.

Sri Lankan police confirmed that officers from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) apprehended the suspect at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) immediately upon his arrival last Friday.

It remains unclear whether the suspect returned to Sri Lanka voluntarily or was detained and deported by Maldivian authorities.

According to police, the youth, a resident of Ethkandura, was a key suspect sought in connection with the fatal shooting of a lawyer and his wife on February 13.

To facilitate his arrest, the suspect's details had been pre-loaded into the airport’s automated facial recognition system. Authorities believe he is a member of an organized crime syndicate.

Police further revealed that the suspect had a prior criminal record, having been arrested in October 2025 for the possession of illegal drugs and again in December of the same year for heroin possession. On both occasions, he was produced before the court and penalized with fines.

Sri Lankan media, citing police sources, reported that investigations into the double murder allegations are ongoing.

Sri Lanka Maldives Criminal Investigation Department

Comments

Muizzu sends greetings to Trump on 250th Independence Day of the U.S.

Jul 4

Maldives pledges USD 50,000 to UNRWA to support Palestine

Jul 2

Nasheed warns climate crisis pushing vulnerable nations toward debt default

Jun 30

French Bee to launch Maldives flights

Jun 28

Latest News

MDP Congress: Decentralisation policy paper approved

The Maldivian Democratic Party approved a decentralization policy aimed at empowering local councils through increased funding and tax revenue shares. The paper proposes restoring Atoll Councils and granting councils more autonomy over hiring and commerce. This move follows government-led restrictions that the MDP seeks to reverse.

UAE authorities question two Maldivians over plot to down flight

UAE authorities are questioning two Maldivian flydubai employees regarding an alleged plot to down a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. The investigation follows an attempted terrorist act by an Omani co-pilot who was subdued by crew and passengers. No arrests have been made as police continue to interview staff who had contact with the suspect.

MDP Congress: Major changes approved to party Statutes

The MDP Congress approved major structural changes to its statutes, including the abolition of the Party President role to make the Chairperson the top official. New rules also mandate a minimum membership duration for voting eligibility. A final vote to adopt the revised constitution will occur tonight before the closing ceremony.

"System must be reconsidered when leader's rights prioritised"

MDP's Fayyaz Ismail called for a systemic overhaul, arguing that the current government has dismantled constitutional checks and balances. He proposed the "Big Change" policy to decentralize power and separate the functions of the State and Government to ensure the rights of the people are prioritized over those of the leader.

MDP Congress: "Big Change" adopted as formal policy

The Maldivian Democratic Party has officially adopted the "Big Change" policy to restructure the nation's governance. Key reforms include separating the roles of Head of State and Head of Government and protecting the judiciary from political influence. The plan also introduces MP recall mechanisms and atoll representation in Parliament.

Dangerous drivers to face criminal probe

Maldives Police have launched a crackdown on dangerous driving, targeting reckless maneuvers and loud vehicle modifications. Repeat offenders will face criminal investigations and public identification, while vehicles may be impounded for 30 days. Authorities are also coordinating with employers to take action against state workers involved.

MDP launches YELO app to digitalise member engagement

The Maldivian Democratic Party has launched the "YELO" mobile app to digitalize member engagement and administrative tasks. The platform offers digital membership cards, news updates, and a community chat feature for its 55,399 members. It is now available on the App Store and Google Play to streamline communication within the opposition party.

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox