Sri Lankan politician jailed for killing Khuram Shaikh

Khuram Shaikh

A Sri Lankan court has sentenced a ruling party politician to 20 years in prison for killing Red Cross worker Khuram Shaikh, from Rochdale.

Sampath Vidanapathirana was jailed for culpable homicide not amounting to murder along with three other men.

Lahiru Kelum, U Sama Deshapriya and Praneeth Chathuranga were also convicted of raping Khuram’s girlfriend.

Two other men, Mohottige Sarath and Chanuka Chathuranga were acquitted of the charges at the High Court in Colombo.

Commenting on the guilty verdict delivered today Rochdale MP Simon Danczuk said: "We’re pleased that the Sri Lankan authorities have delivered the right decision and Khuram’s killers are now behind bars facing justice.

“They were found guilty on every charge, including gang rape, in what was an absolutely appalling case.

"Nearly three years ago now Khuram's father asked me if I would help to get justice for his son and we've fought very hard to get this result.

"The fact that a prominent politician is now behind bars is extremely significant and many Sri Lankan journalists told me this would not happen. I hope it marks a turning point for Sri Lankan justice and sends out a message that no one is above the law.”

Khuram’s brother Nasir added: “It is right that those who killed my brother have been punished and will be behind bars for a long time.

“Our campaign was not only about justice, but to bring awareness of the humanitarian work my brother did as a Red Cross worker. He is a true inspiration for many and he was respected all around the world because of the work he did.”

Khuram, a 32-year-old Red Cross worker was shot and stabbed in Sri Lanka on Christmas Day in 2011. He was killed as he tried to break up a fight.

He had been working in Gaza fitting prosthetic limbs but had decided to holiday in the resort of Tangalle where he was killed.

The trial had been delayed for over two years amid allegations of interference because of Vidanapathirana’s political connections but pressure from the UK government saw the trial go ahead.