The CCD submitted that they were conducting investigations into the discovery of a large amount of gold in the custody of the suspect, Thenuwara Archarige Kelum of No 281/6 Albert Perera Mawatha, Biyanwila, Kadawatha.

Police said they had recovered several kilograms of gold from the suspect following information received. The CCD

moved to send the gold to the Gem and Jewellery Authority to ascertain whether the gold had come from the antique sword stolen from the Colombo Museum or from any other artefact. seum robbery and help the real thieves to get away.

The suspect was remanded till July 16. The gold balls were recovered from the foundation of a house in Biyanwila Kadawatha.

Police said the owner of the house had in his statement to the CCD asserted that he had found the gold in a load of gravel brought to his house in Wellampitiya The owner had also said that he had already sold three gold balls weighing 610 grams to goldsmiths in Ambalangoda and Sea Street, Colombo.

Police said that investigations had revealed that the suspect had travelled to Jaffna and police were investigating whether he had any links with the LTTE.

Counsel Sumith Silva, appearing for the suspect, said that the gold had been found in the possession of the suspect long before the Museum robbery took place and that the police should not try to involve the suspect in the mu-

Source: Daily Mirror - Sri Lanka