Nihal Dissanayake Alias Hinni Mahaththaya vs Hon. Attorney General and others – S.C. Appeal No. 25/2015-2025

This case involves appeals by three accused against their conviction and death sentence for murder. The High Court found the accused guilty, and the Court of Appeal upheld the convictions. Special leave to appeal was granted to address issues concerning the credibility of a sole eyewitness, despite alleged inconsistencies, and the establishment of common murderous intention. The Supreme Court, after reviewing the evidence and legal principles, affirmed the lower courts’ decisions. It was determined that the eyewitness was credible and reliable, and that a pre-arranged plan and common murderous intention were established among all accused, leading to the dismissal of the appeals.

ACHALA WENGAPPULI J. – The main judgment detailed the case background where three accused were convicted of m