Probe ordered into delay in extradition of ‘Dippitigoda Lahiru’ from Japan

A special investigation has been launched to uncover officials allegedly responsible for deliberately delaying the submission of crucial documents necessary for securing Japanese assistance in arresting and extraditing alleged organized crime figure and drug trafficker Pothupitiya Kankanamge Prashith Dinuka, also known as 'Dippitigoda Lahiru.'

Lahiru, who operated from Dubai, relocated to Japan while his alleged protector, Sri Lankan drug trafficker Pallewatte Gamage Chaminda Dilruk, known as 'Parevi Suda,' remained in Dubai, according to sources. Police allege a network involving senior police officers and certain officials from the Attorney General's Department deliberately delayed the submission of required documents, which they claim was facilitated through financial inducements from Parevi Suda.

Authorities have issued an Interpol Red Notice against Lahiru on June 8, 2023, under reference A-5059/8-2023, despite his passport number N7082478 being N7082478 and his last known address in Sri Lanka being No. 226/F/11, Dippitigoda, Kelaniya. Despite multiple serious criminal investigations linked to him, the necessary documentation for his extradition has allegedly been improperly transmitted to Japan.

Police records link Lahiru to over a dozen killings and attempted killings allegedly carried out on his orders while abroad. The investigation aims to determine if administrative delays, negligence, or deliberate intervention by officials hindered efforts to secure Lahiru's arrest and extradition from Japan.