W.M.M. Kumarihami vs Galagamage Indrawansa Kumarasiri – SC TAB 02/2012-2014

In the case between W.M.M. Kumarihami, Chief Registrar, High Court, Colombo 12 (complainant), and Galagamage Indrawanasa Kumarasiri, Thumbedura Vitty Newton, Jayaratnage Dhammika Nihal Jayaratne, and Godapitiyawatte Arachchilage Janapriya Senaratne (accused/appellants), the court addressed whether the evidence—including dock statements, witness testimonies, and circumstantial factors—was sufficient to prove the accused’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt concerning the abduction and murder of two individuals. It was held that despite procedural challenges related to the indictment, the non-calling of certain witnesses, and the invocation of various defenses (superior orders, duress, intoxication, and common intention), the circumstantial evidence collectively substantiated the accused’s part