Police are continuing investigations into a tragic incident in which six people died and eight others were hospitalized after consuming illicit liquor in the Wennappuwa police division.
According to police, the incident occurred on January 6, 2026, within the area under the jurisdiction of the Wennappuwa Police Station. Victims had reportedly consumed illegally brewed alcohol, leading to severe poisoning. Eight other individuals affected by the incident are currently receiving treatment at hospital.
As part of the ongoing investigation, two suspects involved in the illicit liquor trade were arrested and produced before the Marawila Magistrate’s Court on January 7. The court ordered that both suspects be remanded until January 19.
In a further development, police also arrested the main suspect linked to the illegal liquor operation — a 47-year-old resident of Galawatta, East Bandirippuwa — on January 7. He was produced before the Marawila Magistrate’s Court on January 8, following which a two-day detention order was obtained for further questioning.
Police said investigations are continuing to identify any additional suspects and to determine the exact composition of the illicit liquor that led to the deaths.
The Wennappuwa Police are conducting further inquiries into the incident. (Newswire)
