Sri Lanka has experienced a significant increase in gun violence since the beginning of 2025, with Police reporting 27 separate shooting incidents across the country. These incidents have resulted in 22 fatalities and numerous injuries.
This wave of violence began in early January and has persisted into March, with incidents occurring in several key areas including Mount Lavinia, Mannar, Galle, Kotahena, and Devinuwara. The victims of these shootings have included a wide range of individuals, from innocent civilians to alleged gang members and even a former prison official.
Among the most notable incidents was the tragic killing of a man and his two children in Middeniya on February 19th. This case shocked the nation and highlighted the indiscriminate nature of the violence. Another high-profile incident was the courtroom assassination of underworld figure Ganemulla Sanjeewa in Hulftsdorp. This brazen attack underscored the boldness of the perpetrators and raised serious concerns about the security of the judicial system.
These incidents have sparked widespread fear and concern among the Sri Lankan public, prompting calls for stricter gun control measures and increased police presence in high-risk areas. The government has responded by pledging to crack down on illegal firearms and increase funding for law enforcement agencies. However, the root causes of the violence, which are believed to include poverty, social inequality, and organized crime, remain complex and difficult to address.