Increased violence amongst the London Sri Lankan community has been highlighted by the murder of two men on the same night.

Police say the deaths of two men, who died after being attacked in separate incidents early on Sunday, June 8, are linked.

Police have praised the response of the Sri Lankan community, but admit the attacks come amid rising violence.

Partheepan Balasinghan, 23 years, was attacked outside the Palm Beach Restaurant in Wembley by a group of men at 1am.

An hour later, Cisho Kumar Balachandiran, 18, was abducted outside the Icon bar in Ilford, and found lying in a nearby river 12 hours later, suffering serious injuries.

Both men were taken to hospital and then transferred to the National Hospital in WC1, where they both died, Mr Balasinghan on Friday, June 13, and Mr Balachandiran on Saturday, June 15.

Whilst there had been signs of increased violence in the Sri Lankan community, police said they were still unsure of a motive for the attacks.

The same group of Sri Lankan men are believed to be responsible for both attacks, and police said both victims had no known criminal connections.

Police believe the group of men who attacked Mr Balasinghan in Wembley probably drove, via the North Circular road, straight to Ilford, where they abducted and assaulted Mr Balachandiran.

A second Sri Lankan man, who was with Mr Balachandiran, was abducted outside the Icon bar on Ilford High St at the same time, after a brief confrontation.

Police have interviewed this man, who suffered minor injuries, but they are unsure where Mr Balachandiran was taken before he was dumped in the Wanstead river.

Mr Balasinghan was set upon as he walked past the Palm Beach restaurant, by a group of about 4 males.

The men attacked him with bottles, a knife or sword and axe or machete, police said.

The victim suffered serious wounds to his head, neck and shoulders.

Both victims were students, and lived in north London.

It is possible they knew each other, police said.

Detective Chief Inspector Colin Sutton said any violence was a concern for police, and the brutality in two attacks was alarming.

“The level of violence is disturbing, it’s something we are taking very seriously.” DCI Sutton thanked the positive response and assistance of the Sri Lankan community in London, but said there had been other violent incidents.

“Yes, there has been a rise in violence.” Police have been unable to gather detailed descriptions of the suspects, but say they may have been a Green Rover and Shogun-type 4WD vehicle.

Anyone with information should contact the incident room on 020 8247 7911; if you wish to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. All information will be treated in strictest confidence.