And on March 8, a shocking chain‑snatching incident occurred in the Thambarawila region of Wennappuwa. A young woman riding her scooter was then attacked suddenly after a suspect tried to take her gold necklace. What started out as a dangerous crime wound up having a surprising twist, with the accused man’s scheme for escape failing and him being caught by the local youths.
The suspect appeared on a motorcycle and targeted the woman while she was on her two‑wheeler, according to reports. While snatching the necklace, the woman lost control and slipped off her scooter, injuring herself. The suspect broke the necklace off her neck and fled. But his motorcycle ran out of fuel while he attempted to flee. This gave local youths an opportunity to chase him down, catch him and return him to the police.
Chain-Snatching Suspect Arrested After Failed Escape in Wennappuwa
— Karnataka Portfolio (@karnatakaportf) March 11, 2026
A motorbike accident involving a young woman was reported yesterday (8) in the Thambarawila area of Wennappuwa. During the incident, a suspect snatched the gold necklace she was wearing and fled the scene.… pic.twitter.com/ks73lnucs5
The police investigation found the suspect is a Kalutara resident. He had been staying in a Katunayake boarding room for a little while. They also confirmed he suffers from an addiction to “ice,” or crystal methamphetamine, which has also been implicated in several crimes in the area. Additional questioning revealed that he had been linked to several cases of snatching gold necklaces from women walking public roads.
The community praises the bravery of the local youths who apprehended the suspect. Their swift response helped avoid the potential escape of the suspect and brought the victim justice. The incident should have tempered any concerns over drug‑related crimes and the urgency of remaining vigilant in public spaces.
The suspect is currently in police custody and is being pursued in the investigation. They're working to link him to other cases that may lead to other instances of the same and to increase evidence of possible charges against him. Women travelling alone are urged to be cautious and report suspicious occurrences immediately, police have said to the public.
The chain‑snatching in Wennappuwa demonstrates the threat of drug‑addicted criminals and the necessity to have a vigilant community. Though the woman was injured and suffered trauma, the suspect’s failed escape made it possible to bring the culprit to justice. The case further demonstrates the necessity of stricter drug management, better laws against drug consumption and street crimes, and how people can at a low cost help and aid law enforcement.
