A suspect who was under police custody on a 3-day detention order in connection with a shooting in Thalduwa, Avissawella, died when he tried to escape by strangling one of the police officers by using the handcuffs placed on his hands.

The suspect sustained critical injuries when the other officer tried to prevent him from strangling his colleague.

The suspect was arrested by Hambantota police in connection with the shooting in Thalduwa, which led to the deaths of two people. He was later handed over to the Avissawella police for further investigation.

However, when the police officers went to the Avissawella area today (15) along with the suspect in search of evidence related to the case based on the statements made by the suspect, he attempted to escape.