Young brave Policeman killed by alleged drunk driver

The young Police constable who helped apprehend an armed suspect in last week's Rs 7.9 million heist at the General Hospital, died yesterday after being hospitalised due to an accident on 11 June. 

Police Constable Sithum Alahapperuma, attached to the State Intelligence Services was commended by the Acting Inspector General of Police and drew public praise from many quarters for preventing the escape of heist suspect with Rs 7.9 million in pay with the assistance of a fellow constable and a Woman Police Inspector last week. 

According to the Police, PC Alahapperuma, a 22-year old resident of Nelumwewa, Polonnaruwa had been returning to barracks after completing his duties around 11.00 pm last Thursday when the motorcycle they were riding collided with a "Defender" 4x4 vehicle near Thunmulla Junction.  Alahapperuma succumbed to his injuries whilst being treated at the ICU, National Hospital. His colleague is also hospitalised with serious injuries.

Initial reports indicated that the driver of the vehicle, a rugby player, did not stop and render assistance. Police last night arrested the driver of the vehicle and remanded till today (15 June) after being produced before a magistrate yesterday. Police suspect that the driver was under the influence of alcohol while being behind the wheel. 

Alahapperuma's death and untimely end to a promising law enforcement career saw the Police media unit publish a rare press release expressing their sorrow about the loss of a colleague and offering condolences to the family. (AF)