What Happened.
On The Record.

2025 criminal shooting surge

Police reported 114 shooting incidents, 60 deaths and 57 injuries during 2025, with organised crime and narcotics rivalries a major driver.

Crow Island / Kotahena police 'encounter' deaths

Two suspects arrested over a fatal Kotahena shooting were shot dead by police at Crow Island after police said they tried to seize officers' weapons while being taken to recover hidden firearms.

An allegation, arrest or indictment is not treated as guilt. This record documents that the allegation exists and how it was handled, not that it is true.

Ganemulla Sanjeewa killed inside court

A gunman disguised as a lawyer entered the Hulftsdorp court complex and killed a high-risk remand prisoner.

Kotmale SLTB bus crash — 23 killed

An inquiry found driver fatigue was the primary cause and that mandatory rest regulations under the Motor Traffic Act had been violated.

Sathsara Nimesh death in Welikada police custody

Sathsara Nimesh died after being taken into Welikada Police custody.

An allegation, arrest or indictment is not treated as guilt. This record documents that the allegation exists and how it was handled, not that it is true.

Weligama opposition politician killing

SJB politician Lasantha Wickramasekara was shot dead.

Akuregoda lawyer and wife shot dead

Attorney Buddhika Mallawaarachchi and his wife were shot dead in Akuregoda, prompting an exceptional nationwide response from the legal profession.

Negombo prison riot — 26 deaths

Twenty-six people ultimately died in a major prison riot; the prison was operating far above intended capacity.