IntelScoops

By Crime Desk

Colombo – August 4, 2025

A senior officer of the Sri Lanka Police has received a chilling death threat allegedly from notorious underworld figure Kehelbaddara Padme, following the arrest of one of his close associates, authorities confirmed today.

Chief Inspector Linton Silva, Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the Western Province North Crimes Division, received the threat via a phone call around 8:45 p.m. on August 3, shortly after the arrest of a 39-year-old suspect known as “Gampaha Deva” at the Bandaranaike International Airport.

According to police, the arrested individual is a long-time associate of Kehelbaddara Padme and is suspected to be involved in multiple serious offences, including murder. Investigations reveal that the two had previously met in Russia and Thailand, and the suspect was reportedly planning another visit to Thailand to meet Padme at the time of his arrest.

Threatening Call and Police Response

Sources within the police say that during the call, Kehelbaddara Padme made veiled threats directed at Chief Inspector Silva’s family. He allegedly warned:

“You are also playing a game… we are also playing a game. Tell a correct way to do this. You have a child, right? You know what to do. We are holding the death certificate in our hands anyway; we are not afraid of dying.”

In a firm response, Inspector Silva dismissed the threat, saying:

“What are you talking about a child? What needs to be done? We are not afraid either. Don’t think I will be intimidated by your death threat. Come to Sri Lanka and talk face to face. The law will be enforced.”

Ongoing Investigation

The Airport Criminal Investigation Unit conducted the arrest, and the ongoing investigation is being led by Assistant Superintendent of Police Rohan Olugala and Chief Inspector Silva. Police believe the suspect may be connected to a wider criminal network operating across borders.

Authorities have not yet commented on whether Interpol or international law enforcement agencies will be involved, but given Padme’s international movements, cross-border collaboration is likely.

Background on Kehelbaddara Padme

Kehelbaddara Padme has long been a figure of interest to law enforcement agencies, believed to be a mastermind behind several organised crimes, both domestic and international. His network is said to extend beyond Sri Lanka, with known activity in parts of Europe and Southeast Asia.

Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses. Police officials have assured that security around key personnel has been strengthened and that threats will not deter the enforcement of the law.