A shooting was reported around 6:35 a.m. today (August 3) in the Kapugama area of Matara, police said.

According to reports, two unidentified gunmen on a motorcycle opened fire using a T-56 assault rifle at a man inside a residence. The 48-year-old victim sustained minor injuries to his leg and was hospitalized.

Police confirmed the victim is a bus owner and long-time fishing vessel businessman.

Preliminary investigations suggest the shooting was orchestrated by an organized criminal operating from Dubai—known as Shehan Sathsara alias “Dehibala Malli.” The motive is believed to be linked to close ties between the victim and families of Pasindu Tharaka and Yomes Nadishan, who were shot dead on March 21 near the southern entrance of the Sri Vishnu Kovil in Dewinuwara.

Three T-56 rounds were recovered from the scene, and Gandara Police are conducting further investigations.

This marks the 76th reported shooting incident in Sri Lanka in 2025, with 41 fatalities and 43 injuries recorded so far. (Newswire)

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