A MAN has denied murdering a woman whose body was discovered lying between two cars in a Cardiff street.
Nirodha Niwunhella, aged 32, was found with multiple sharp force injuries in South Morgan Place, Riverside, on Thursday, August 21. Paramedics were called but she was declared dead at the scene at 7:50am.
At Cardiff Crown Court on Friday (Sep 19), Thisara Weragalage, 37, of Pentwyn, pleaded not guilty to the charge of murder. He admitted a separate offence of having an article with a blade or point.
The Recorder of Cardiff, Judge Tracey Lloyd Clark, remanded Weragalage in custody. A provisional trial date has been set for February 9 next year.
Inquest and tributes
An inquest hearing at Pontypridd Coroners’ Court was told Miss Niwunhella was formally identified by a friend, and a post mortem examination gave a provisional cause of death as multiple sharp force injuries.
Miss Niwunhella, who lived on Romilly Road, Canton, was originally from Sri Lanka.
Her family said in a tribute: “We remember Nirodha as a cherished daughter, family member and dear friend to many. She will be forever remembered with peace, love and gratitude. She touched many lives with her kindness and warmth and her memory will continue to inspire us. Rest in peace angel.”
Police statement
Senior Investigating Officer, DCI Matthew Davies of South Wales Police, 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.”
Images: Wales News Service
