Sri Lanka Police say the driver of a van who was shot in Kayts by the Police yesterday for failing to heed orders to stop for inspection was a 19-year-old youth.
Previously, it was reported that a 17-year-old driver had sustained serious injuries and had succumbed to injuries at the Jaffna Hospital.
However, the Police clarified that Police officials in the Kayts division signalled a suspicious van to stop near Allapiddy Junction, but the vehicle failed to comply. Officers then opened fire, injuring a 19‑year‑old passenger who later died at Jaffna Hospital.
Two suspects, aged 25 from Chinna Nagar, Nallur, and 38 from Sithankerny, were arrested and produced before the Kayts Magistrate’s Court, which remanded them until February 24.
The deceased suspect’s body was handed over to relatives after a magistrate’s inquiry yesterday confirmed he had been using ICE and heroin.
Medical examinations also revealed that one of the other suspects had used narcotics.
The van, with its rear seats removed, was searched with forensic support, uncovering 17.5 grams of cannabis, a sword, a knife, rope, and animal hide.
Police suspect the vehicle was linked to cattle thefts and other crimes in Kayts.
Investigations are ongoing under the supervision of an Assistant Superintendent of Police, with assistance from the Jaffna Crime Investigation Division. (Newswire)
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