Man Arrested for Setting Wife on Fire After Pouring Petrol

A 41-year-old man has been arrested by police over an incident in which he allegedly poured petrol on his wife and set her on fire.

The suspect, a resident of the Meegahawatta–Angoda area, was taken into custody following investigations into the incident.

According to police, the attack occurred around 5.30 p.m. on the 18th when the suspect arrived in a three-wheeler, poured petrol on the woman’s head, and set her on fire before fleeing the scene.

The woman sustained severe burn injuries and was immediately admitted to hospital. She is currently receiving treatment in the intensive care unit of the National Hospital of Sri Lanka.

Hospital sources stated that she remains in critical condition with serious burns to her face and chest.

Police said they were able to record a statement from the victim despite her condition.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the woman’s legally wedded husband was responsible for the attack. Based on the investigation, officers arrested the suspect within the Mulleriyawa Police Division.

Police have also taken into custody the petrol bottle and the three-wheeler allegedly used in the incident.

During questioning, the suspect reportedly admitted that he had set fire to his own wife.

Investigators further revealed that both individuals had legally divorced their previous spouses before marrying each other.

However, the suspect claimed in his statement that the woman had associated with several individuals and often stayed away from home for long periods.

Police also stated that preliminary investigations revealed the suspect had told the woman that he intended to take his own life after carrying out the attack.

Residents told police that the suspect had no prior criminal record and had been working as a three-wheeler driver.

The suspect is scheduled to be produced before the Maligakanda Magistrate’s Court No. 08 on Sunday (24).