CCTV investigation to find the group who killed a porcupine and took it away on a narrow road in Pelawatta

Police and wildlife officials are searching for CCTV footage to identify individuals who killed and carried away a porcupine in the early hours of October 3 on Perera Mawatha, Battaramulla, Pelawatta. This incident is reported to have been captured by a security camera at a nearby house.

However, the registration number of the three-wheeler believed to have been used by the suspects is not clearly visible in the footage. This has made it difficult to identify the individuals involved.

A local resident who filed a complaint with the Talangama Police regarding the incident is attempting to obtain additional CCTV footage from houses along the road. The aim is to assist the investigation.

According to those involved in this effort, Mr. Rusiran Perera, an eyewitness to the incident, sought assistance from neighboring residents. However, he received no response from some houses. JAN President, Dr. Venerable Omalpe Sobitha Thero intervened in this matter. Subsequently, a Talangama Police officer arrived in the area to examine the security camera footage. An officer from the Department of Wildlife Conservation was also present to assist with the investigation.

However, some residents did not open their house gates. They also did not provide contact details. Due to this, officials were reportedly unable to obtain camera footage from those houses. A police officer is scheduled to return to the area to inspect the cameras. If residents continue to deny access, the police may have to obtain a court order to acquire the relevant footage.

Those advocating for justice for the animal have also issued a warning. They state that due to delays, crucial footage could be overwritten and erased, and other evidence could be lost. Residents with CCTV footage of vehicles traveling on Perera Mawatha between 2:00 AM and 2:15 AM on October 3 have been requested to assist the investigation.

Drivers who traveled on that road during that time and have dashcam footage have also been requested to come forward with any information that could help identify the vehicle and the individuals responsible.