Probe into missing weapon, ammunition from Ratmalana SLAF base

The Mount Lavinia Police has launched an extensive investigation regarding the theft of a T-56 weapon with 120 rounds of ammunition and four ammunition holders,

from the Ratmalana Air Force Base armoury. A high-ranking police officer said that the investigation was started based on a complaint lodged by Wing Commander H.A.Rohitha Perera, Supervising Officer of the Ratmalana Air Force Base, armoury, about this theft.

The officer said that during preliminary investigations itself, it is apparent that the theft of this firearm and the stock of ammunition was carried out in an organized manner.

This T-56 weapon bearing serial number 3723209 had been issued to Rajapaksha, a sergeant at Ratmalana Air Force Base, on or around February 20,in the morning from the armoury after the issue was noted down and signatures were obtained. Later, after the completion of his duties, the officer had handed over the weapon to the corporal named Sampath, who was temporarily on duty at the armory at that time.

When Sergeant Rajapaksa went to get the weapon again, it was noted that a corporal named Jayasinghe had taken the weapon along with four ammunition holders.

While investigating the matter, officers of the air force camp’s armoury discovered that another officer named Jayasinghe had taken four ammunition holders along with the firearm and 120 rounds of ammunitions by placing a forged signature.

Police information stated that police headquarters has focused on handing over the investigation to the Criminal Investigation Department as it appears that this theft had been planned.