Sri Lankan man charged with murdering woman in UK

A 37-year-old Sri Lankan man has appeared in court in the UK accused of murdering a Sri Lankan woman.

Niwunhellage Dona Nirodha Kalapni Niwunhella, 32, known as Nirodha, died after being ‘seriously injured’ on a road in Cardiff on Thursday morning.

Paramedics attended the scene on South Morgan Place in Riverside at 7.37am, but despite their best efforts Nirodha was pronounced dead at the scene.

Thisara Weragalage, of Pentwyn, 37, was arrested shortly afterwards on Seawall Road in Splott. Police say he was known to her but lived in a separate part of the Welsh capital.

He has been charged with her murder and appeared at Cardiff Magistrates Court today. Weragalage remains in custody.

It comes after Nirodha’s heartbroken family released a touching tribute following her death earlier this week.

‘We remember Nirodha as a cherished daughter, family member and dear friend to many. Nirodha will be forever remembered with peace, love and gratitude,’ it read.

‘She touched many lives with her kindness and warmth and her memory will continue to inspire us.

‘Though her life ended too soon, the love she shared will always remain with us. Rest in peace angel.’

People in the close-knit Sri Lankan community in the Welsh capital were ‘shocked and saddened’ at the tragedy.

A neighbour said: ‘She was such a beautiful woman. This is such a tragic waste of a young life full of promise.’

Detectives are appealing for witnesses, or anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage nearby to come forward.

They are particularly looking to speak to anyone with information about a grey Ford Fiesta in or near South Morgan Place, or Seawall Road, including Wellington Street, Clare Road, Penarth Road and East Tyndall Street, between 7.30am and 8.30am on Thursday.

Weragalage, of Pentwyn, Cardiff, was remanded in custody and will next appear at Cardiff Crown Court on Tuesday, 26 August.

Senior Investigating officer DCI Matthew Davies said: ‘My heartfelt condolences are with Nirodha’s family, friends, and loved ones as they come to terms with this tragic loss.

‘We have specially trained officers supporting her loved ones at this time and ask that their privacy is respected.

‘I continue to urge anyone with information who is yet to speak to officers to come forward and support our investigation.’ (Daily Mail)