the victim of a 'horrific' hate murder was found dead in a cemetery used as a cruising spot by gay men
The victim of a 'horrific' homophobic murder has been named as detectives appeal for help in catching his killer.
Ranjith Kankanamalage, 50, was found with 'blunt force trauma' injuries to his head in a cemetery in London's East End.
His body was discovered in Tower Hamlets Cemetery on the morning of Monday, August 16th.
Local residents said that the graveyard was well known as a 'cruising' spot for gay men, but gangs of youths had also been gathering there during lockdown.
Police say that the victim - also known as 'Roy' - had lived in the area for several years. His family are being supported by specialist officers.
The murder is being is being treated as a homophobic hate crime, although detectives say they are 'keeping an open mind' as the investigation continues.
Ranjith Kankanamalage, 50, was found with 'blunt force trauma' injuries to his head in a cemetery in Tower Hamlets, London
Police patrols have been stepped up in the area and officers have been working with LGBT+ advisory groups and charities to inform and encourage members of the community to stay safe in the wake of the incident.
Detective Chief Superintendent Marcus Barnett, Police Commander for Hackney and Tower Hamlets, said: 'This is a horrific murder and my thoughts are with Ranjith's family and loved ones.
'Whilst such incidents are thankfully still very rare in London, I want to reassure that community that my officers and specialist detectives are working tirelessly to bring those responsible to justice.
'I also want to be really clear that there is no place, at all, in London for any form of hate crime and the Met is absolutely committed to tackling it and supporting victims. We are here for you.'
He added: 'A crucial part of our work, and especially during this investigation, is community support and engagement, and I am really grateful for the support we are receiving from LGBTQ+ organisations during this difficult time, where they are assisting my teams in keeping the community updated.
'This is a live investigation and I would urge the community to work with us and to tell us what they might know about Ranjith and what's happened to him.
'The slightest piece of information could prove crucial to the investigation.
'You can contact Crimestoppers anonymously, or speak to the charities mentioned. But what matters most is that you make the call if you know anything.'
Local residents said that the graveyard was well known as a 'cruising' spot for gay men, but gangs of youths had also been gathering there during lockdown
Detective Superintendent Pete Wallis, of the Met's Specialist Crime Command, said: 'My officers are working 24/7 with local colleagues and drawing from resources across the Met.
'We will stop at nothing to bring justice to Ranjith's family, who have been left devastated following this awful incident.
'I need anyone who has information to contact us immediately. Have you seen someone in the park or area who was acting suspiciously? It is imperative that you tell us what you know.
'Ranjith's s family are devastated, and your information could help us bring them justice.'
Derek Lee, of the LGBT+ Advisory Group, said: 'We are a voluntary group of independent advisors working closely with the local police, local council and the homicide team on this case.
'We are making sure that LGBT+ issues are addressed in the investigation of this tragic death as well as the wider police response regarding safety in Tower Hamlets and the whole of London.
'If you have any information, please contact the police, Crimestoppers or the LGBT+ charity, Galop.
'The investigation team is clear that they are only interested in information relevant to the case and your privacy will be respected.'
A 36-year-old man arrested in connection with the investigation has been released on bail.