A man has confessed to the brutal murder of his former wife in a case that has left a community in Wales reeling. Thisara Weragalage, aged 37, initially denied any involvement in the killing of Nirodha Niwunhella but has now entered a guilty plea in court.
The Tragic Morning in Riverside
The incident unfolded on the morning of August 21 last year. Emergency services were called to South Morgan Place in the Riverside area of Cardiff at approximately 7.37 am. Paramedics discovered the body of 32-year-old Nirodha Niwunhella lying between two parked cars.
Despite their immediate efforts, they were unable to save her life. She was pronounced dead at the scene. A pathologist, Dr Stephen Leadbeatter, later stated that the provisional cause of death was multiple sharp force injuries.
From Denial to Guilty Plea
Weragalage, who is of Sri Lankan origin, was arrested shortly after the discovery of Nirodha's body. At first, he firmly denied the charge of murder brought against him. However, the legal proceedings took a decisive turn.
He first admitted to possessing a knife on the day of the killing. Then, appearing at Newport Crown Court, he changed his plea and formally admitted to the murder of his ex-wife. Judge Daniel Williams has ordered Weragalage to be held in custody until his sentencing, which is scheduled for February 20.
A Life Remembered with Love and Sorrow
In the wake of the tragedy, Nirodha's heartbroken family released a moving tribute to her. They described her as a 'cherished daughter, family member and dear friend to many'.
'Nirodha will be forever remembered with peace, love, and gratitude,' the statement continued. '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.'
The local community expressed profound shock. One neighbour remembered Nirodha, saying, 'She was such a beautiful woman. This is such a tragic waste of a young life full of promise.' Area coroner Patricia Morgan, during an inquest in Pontypridd, noted the death was suspected to be 'violent or unnatural' and offered her deepest condolences to the family and friends.
The case stands as a grim reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence, cutting short a life described by all who knew her as beautiful and kind.
