Thirukkovil Police shooting – Special probe launched

Thirukkovil Police shooting – Special probe launched

(FASTNEWS | COLOMBO) – A special investigation has been launched into the incident in which four Police officers died in a shooting carried out by a Sergeant, at the Thirukkovil Police Station, based on directives issued by the Senior Deputy Inspector General of Police of the Eastern Province.

Police Media Spokesman Senior Superintendent of Police Nihal Thalduwa said the investigation will be headed by an Assistant Superintendent of the Police of the Ampara division and Officer-in-Charge.

Three Police officers were initially reported to have died when a Sergeant grabbed the official firearm of the officer on duty at the main entrance of the Police Station, and opened fire last night.

Police said the OIC had arrived at the scene in the jeep, and was admitted to hospital after sustaining injuries in the shooting.

Accordingly five persons including the OIC were admitted to hospital. Another officer succumbed to injuries today, increasing the death toll to four.

A Sergeant, two Constables and a Police Constable driver died in the incident.

Four more persons including the OIC are receiving treatment at the Kalmunai, Akkaraipattu and Thirukkovil hospitals.

The suspect, a resident of Ethimale, had fled to his area of residence in his personal cab, with two T-56 firearms and 19 rounds of ammunition.

Police said he later surrendered to the Ethimale Police. He was handed over to the Ampara Police Headquarters for further investigations.