A large-scale three-wheeler theft racket

Three suspects connected to a large-scale three-wheeler theft racket have been arrested by the police through a special operation conducted by the Nugegoda Divisional Criminal Investigation Division. Following a complaint received by the Mirihana Police Station on December 28, 2025, regarding a three-wheeler theft, and as a result of the investigations launched, 11 stolen three-wheelers found in the possession of the suspects have been taken into police custody.

In connection with this incident, investigating officers first arrested two suspects on January 10, 2026. Subsequently, through further investigations, another suspect connected to the incident was taken into police custody on January 11. Based on information revealed during the interrogation of the suspects, a three-wheeler stolen from the Mirihana area was recovered in the Kuruwita area. Additionally, ten more stolen three-wheelers hidden in the areas of Yatiyantota, Balangoda, Badulla, and Battaramulla were also recovered by the investigating officers.

The police have revealed that these arrested suspects, aged 30, 32, and 46, are residents of Kelaniya, Ambalantota, and Parakaduwa areas. They had meticulously changed the color, chassis numbers, and engine numbers of the stolen three-wheelers, and it was confirmed during investigations that they had prepared fake number plates and documents to sell them. The Nugegoda Divisional Criminal Investigation Division is conducting further investigations into this incident.