BENGALURU: The Central Crime Branch (CCB) has arrested three Sri Lankan nationals who were allegedly staying illegally in a rented apartment near Devanahalli. Police suspect the trio had fled their home country after being involved in serious crimes and had been hiding in Bengaluru for several months.
Arrest and identities revealed
The accused have been identified as Vidyanagamge Iresh Hansaka Jayardhane (31) of Ratnamalana, Jayasingle Pathirannage Sugath Sameendu (46) of Kotahena, and Jayasariya Mudalige Dilip Harishan (29) of Dondra — all hailing from Colombo.
The men were residing in Ozone Urbana apartments near Devanahalli for the past eight months. None of them possessed valid documents, including passports or visas.
Illegal entry into India
Investigations revealed that the trio entered India illegally from Jaffna to Rameswaram (Tamil Nadu) in 2024. After crossing the border, they briefly stayed in Chennai and Coimbatore before shifting base to Bengaluru.
A special CCB team headed by assistant commissioner of police (anti-narcotics wing) HK Mahananda raided their apartment on September 25, following directions from deputy commissioner of police (crime-2) Raja Imam Kasim.
Criminal backgrounds
According to police, Vidyanagamge is wanted in a drug peddling case in Sri Lanka, while Jayasingle faces charges of murder and other offences. Details about Harishan remain unclear, but officials suspect all three men escaped to India to avoid arrest and prosecution in their home country.
The CCB is now trying to identify the individual who helped the accused secure accommodation in Bengaluru and facilitated their stay.
Embassy involvement
Authorities have contacted the Sri Lankan embassy for verification of identities and further information about the accused. Legal proceedings are underway to determine the next steps, including possible deportation.
A senior officer said the case highlights growing concerns about illegal immigration and cross-border fugitives using Bengaluru as a safe hideout.