October 19, Colombo (LNW): Authorities have taken five additional suspects into custody as investigations into the shooting of tusker Kavantissa expand to cover other suspected unlawful activities in the surrounding area, according to the Ministry of Environment.
The arrests followed a coordinated operation involving officers from the Department of Wildlife Conservation, the Panadura Walana Central Anti-Corruption Task Force and the police. The latest developments suggest that investigators are examining whether the incident is connected to a wider pattern of illegal conduct.
The Ministry said preliminary findings had established a direct link between the principal suspect, who was arrested earlier, and the shooting of the elephant. The five individuals detained in the latest operation are suspected of involvement in other illegal activities reported in the area.
The suspects are currently being questioned by wildlife officials and officers attached to Galgamuwa Police as inquiries continue into the circumstances surrounding the killing of the tusker.
Investigators are also seeking to establish whether an organised group was operating in the area, potentially involving the unlawful possession or use of firearms and activities directed at wildlife. Further inquiries are expected to clarify the extent of any connections between the suspects and the alleged offences.
The Ministry’s Media Unit said the investigation remained ongoing, with authorities continuing efforts to gather evidence and determine the full scope of the activities under scrutiny.
The case has renewed attention on the need for stronger action against wildlife-related crime and more effective cooperation among law enforcement agencies to protect Sri Lanka’s wildlife.
The post Five More Arrested as Probe into Kavanthissa Shooting Widens appeared first on LNW Lanka News Web.