News
False social media reports on Dinesh Schaffter killing hamper investigations: CID
By Hemantha Randunu and Norman Palihawadana
There was no evidence to prove that businessman Dinesh Schaffter killed himself, a CID officer said, adding rumours disseminated via social media about on various breakthroughs were fictitious.
“These reports are causing a serious problem for investigations. There are a lot of misconceptions in society about the case as well. There is no evidence that Schaffter killed himself,” he said.
A senior police officer also dismissed reports that Schaffter had written an ’emotional’ letter to his mother-in-law as being false. “Reports claiming that police had found, at the victim’s house, a wire similar to the one he was strangled with, are also fake, he said.
“We have questioned about 90 people so far. We are also investigating if these false reports are spread by an organised group to hinder investigations. On Wednesday, those investigating the Schaffter case held a two-hour discussion with the IGP. What could be done to overcome the current stalemate in the investigation was discussed,” he said.
The IGP instructed them to pay closer attention to the CCTV footage. The CID officer said investigations were being carried out, based on security camera footage, and phone analysis as well as eyewitness evidence.
Schaffter, 51, was found strapped to the driving seat and strangled in his car on 15 December late afternoon. The car has been subjected to forensic tests along with data from mobile phone base stations in the area to establish those who were in the vicinity at the time.
“We are trying to establish a credible motive. Both his business and social contacts are being looked into. Investigators are keeping an open mind,” the officer told The Island.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake officially opened the Wax Museum established at the historic Ehelepola Walawwa in Kandy.this morning (17)
The Ehelepola Walawwa, which was renovated by the Urban Development Authority, has been handed over to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. The museum was then established, ensuring the preservation of its archaeological and cultural significance.
The museum features wax recreations depicting the architecture, customs and arts and crafts of the Kandyan Kingdom, to which the Ehelepola Walawwa belongs. There are also exhibition stalls showcasing traditional industries, as well as a dining area illustrating how ancient royal meals were prepared, complete with their recipes.
Furthermore, 35 lifelike wax figures of significant historical figures have been recreated at the museum. These include Ven. Weliwita Sri Saranankara Sangharaja Thera, Ven. Wariyapola Sri Sumangala Thera, King Wimaladharmasūriya I, Queen Kusumāsana Devi, Monarawila Keppetipola Disawe, Devendra Mulachari, Governor Robert Brownrigg, Ehelepola Maha Adikaram, Kumarihami, and their two children.
It’s anticipated that this museum, designed to showcase Sri Lanka’s grandeur and pride, will be a major attraction for both local and international tourists visiting Kandy.
It’s also expected to become a centre where the current generation can accurately study the Kandyan Kingdom and its associated history.
Athula Herath, a resident of Gampola, is the designer of the museum. The project, which falls under the Ehelepola Walawwa Museum Special Project, was implemented at a cost of Rs. 300 million.
Among those present at the opening were Most Venerable Dr Niyangoda Vijithasiri Thera, Anunayake of the Malwathu Chapter of the Siyam Maha Nikaya and Most Venerable Ven. Dimbulkumbure Wimaladhamma Thera, Anunayake of the Malwathu Chapter of the Siam Maha Nikaya; Most Venerable Wendaruwe Upali Thera and Most Venerable Anamaduwe Dhammadassi Thera, the Anunayake Theras of the Asgiri Chapter of the Siam Maha Nikaya, along with other revered monks from both the Malwathu and Asgiri Chapters of the Syamopali Maha Nikaya, including their registrars and executive council members.
Also in attendance were K.D. Lalkantha, Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Land and Irrigation, Pradeep Nilanga Dela, Diyawadana Nilame of the Sri Dalada Maligawa and a host of invited dignitaries and scholars from various fields.
It has been reported that three police officers holding the rank of Sub Inspector [SI] attached to the Matara Division Intelligence Unit and the Thihagoda and Mawarala police stations have been interdicted following allegations of misconduct.
The three officers are alleged to have visited a Spa in the Walgama area in Matara and demanded free service..
Based on a complaint received, an internal investigation conducted by the Office of the Superintendent of Police in Matara found the officers guilty of misconduct and corrupt practices.
Further investigations into the incident are being conducted.
It has been reported that indictments have been served on former Minister of Health Keheliya Rambukwella, his wife, three daughters and son-in-law charged for acquiring wealth unlawfully.
President opens Wax Museum at the historic Ehelepola Walawwa in Kandy
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