The family of a 32-year-old woman found dead in a Cardiff street has paid a heartbreaking tribute to their “cherished daughter” as a man appeared in court charged with her murder.
Niwunhellage Dona Nirodha Kalapni Niwunhella, known as Nirodha, was discovered with serious injuries at South Morgan Place in the Riverside area of Cardiff at 7.37am on Thursday. Despite the best efforts of emergency services, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Thisara Weragalage, 37, from Pentwyn, has been charged with murder and appeared at Cardiff Magistrates’ Court on Saturday. He has been remanded in custody and will next appear at Cardiff Crown Court on Tuesday, 26 August.
Family’s Touching Tribute
Nirodha’s devastated family, who are being supported by specialist officers, released an emotional tribute on Friday describing her as a “cherished daughter, family member and dear friend to many.”
“Nirodha will be forever remembered with peace, love and gratitude,” the tribute 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.”
The tribute highlights the profound impact Nirodha had on those around her and the devastating loss her death represents to family and friends.
Police Investigation Details
South Wales Police confirmed that Weragalage, who was known to Nirodha, was arrested on nearby Seawall Road in Splott shortly after the discovery of her body. The force had initially reported that emergency services were called to South Morgan Place following reports of a seriously injured woman.
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Chief Inspector Matthew Davies expressed his condolences to the family. “My heartfelt condolences are with Nirodha’s family, friends, and loved ones as they come to terms with this tragic loss,” he said.
“We have specially trained officers supporting her loved ones at this time and ask that their privacy is respected.”
Witness Accounts
A local resident living near the scene told WalesOnline that she heard a scream at approximately 7.30am on Thursday morning. She initially thought it was children before police arrived at the scene shortly afterwards.
The witness account suggests the attack occurred during morning hours when residents would have been preparing for work and school runs, adding to the shock felt by the local community.
Police conducted extensive door-to-door enquiries throughout Thursday and established a large cordon around the area. A forensic tent was erected outside a block of flats as investigators gathered evidence.
Appeal for Information
Detectives are urgently appealing for witnesses or anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage to come forward. They are particularly interested in information about a grey Ford Fiesta seen in or near South Morgan Place between 7.30am and 8.30am on Thursday morning.
The areas of interest include Seawall Road, Wellington Street, Clare Road, Penarth Road, and East Tyndall Street. DCI Davies emphasised: “I continue to urge anyone with information who is yet to speak to officers to come forward and support our investigation.”
Anyone with relevant information is asked to contact South Wales Police on 101, quoting reference number specific to this case.
Sri Lankan Community Mourns
Both Nirodha and the accused are believed to be of Sri Lankan origin, according to reports from Sri Lankan media outlets. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the local Sri Lankan community in Cardiff.
The case highlights the multicultural nature of Cardiff, where communities from various backgrounds have made their homes. The loss of a young woman in such tragic circumstances has resonated across cultural boundaries.
Local community leaders have expressed their condolences to Nirodha’s family whilst urging anyone with information to assist police with their investigation.
High Crime Area
The incident occurred in Riverside, which statistics show is one of Cardiff’s most crime-affected areas. According to recent crime data, Riverside has a crime rate of 247 crimes per 1,000 people, making it the most dangerous small town in South Glamorgan.
This represents a rate 150 per cent higher than the South Glamorgan average. The area particularly struggles with violent offences and public order incidents, with violence and sexual offences being the most common crimes.
Despite these statistics, the brutal nature of Thursday’s incident has shocked even those familiar with the area’s challenges. The daylight attack in a residential street has heightened concerns about safety.
Support Services Available
The tragedy underscores the ongoing issue of violence against women in Wales. Support services are available for those affected by domestic violence or experiencing concerns about their safety.
Welsh Women’s Aid operates a 24-hour Live Fear Free Helpline on 0808 80 10 800, providing confidential support in both English and Welsh. The service is available to anyone experiencing domestic abuse, sexual violence, or other forms of violence against women.
In Cardiff specifically, RISE Cardiff provides specialist support services from their base at The Women’s Centre on Meteor Street in Adamsdown. They offer crisis support, accommodation, and advocacy for women and children affected by violence.
Cardiff Women’s Aid, which recently merged with Llamau, continues to provide vital services to women experiencing domestic violence and sexual abuse in the capital.
Investigation Continues
As the investigation progresses, police are working to establish the full circumstances surrounding Nirodha’s death. The quick arrest of a suspect known to the victim suggests this was not a random attack.
The case will now proceed through the criminal justice system, with Weragalage’s next court appearance scheduled for Tuesday at Cardiff Crown Court. Given the serious nature of the charge, he is expected to remain in custody throughout proceedings.
South Wales Police have assured the community that this appears to be an isolated incident, though they continue to appeal for any information that might assist their investigation.
Community Impact
The loss of a young woman in such violent circumstances has deeply affected the Riverside community. Local residents have expressed shock at the morning’s events, with many offering condolences to Nirodha’s family.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the reality of violence against women, even in broad daylight in residential areas. It has prompted renewed discussions about women’s safety and the need for continued vigilance.
As the community processes this tragedy, support services remain available for anyone affected by the incident or experiencing concerns about their own safety. The message from authorities and support organisations is clear: help is available, and no one should suffer in silence.
For those affected by this incident or experiencing domestic violence, support is available 24/7 through the Live Fear Free Helpline on 0808 80 10 800.
