A dispute between two Chinese gangs that had reportedly come to Sri Lanka for various illegal smuggling activities escalated, resulting in one gang attacking three Chinese nationals who were fishing near the suspension bridge in the Colombo Port City complex in the early hours of today. One of the victims was abducted and later found murdered in Eheliyagoda.
Police also recovered the car used to abduct the Chinese national after it had been abandoned near the scene.
According to police, the victim was stabbed to death. Two Chinese nationals suspected of being involved in the murder were arrested at Bandaranaike International Airport, Katunayake, while attempting to flee the country.
The two suspects had arrived at the airport yesterday at around 4:30 p.m. to board a flight to Mumbai, India. They had also purchased onward tickets to Singapore. The suspects are aged 34 and 38.
The two Chinese nationals who were injured in the attack have been admitted to the Colombo National Hospital. During questioning, they told investigators that they had arrived in Sri Lanka about four months ago. However, the exact purpose of their visit has not yet been established.
The two injured men and the deceased had travelled to Port City in a luxury SUV before the attack.
Police investigations have revealed that around 15 Chinese nationals were involved in the assault. Officers also recovered a KDH-type van abandoned within the Port City premises. A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of an air pistol.
Investigations further revealed that both the van and the car used in the incident had been obtained on a rental basis.
Police are continuing further investigations into the incident.
