A shocking revelation has emerged, reigniting a cold case that raises grave concerns about national security and the integrity of Sri Lanka’s sports administration. The allegations involve illegal arms and ammunition smuggling and fraud linked to Shirantha Peries the current President of the National Shooting Sports Federation. At the time of the incident, the federation was led by the now-Director General of Sports Development, Dr. Shemal Fernando.
Weapon Smuggling Allegations
This case urgently demands to be re-investigated, as mounting questions arise about whether those implicated will finally be held accountable.Alongside NSSF Secretary Dushan Wijewickrema and another senior official, they were summoned by the Ministry of Sports on the 21st of March 2018, after the Ministry of Defense ordered an inquiry into the unauthorized importation and sale of weapons and ammunition, activities that compromise the very fabric of national security.
However, reliable sources reveal that this inquiry was suppressed, allegedly due to wielding of undue influence during the tenure of the Rajapaksa regime. Such practices, critics argue, were not uncommon under the Mahinda and Gotabhaya Rajapaksa administrations, where allegations of corruption and misconduct often went unpunished.
A Test of Integrity for the New Sports Minister
The newly appointed Minister of Sports, Sunil Kumara Gamage, has publicly pledged to investigate all cases of fraud and corruption, even those committed in the past, and to ensure perpetrators are brought to justice. Yet, the presence of individuals with such serious allegations still holding positions of authority within national sports bodies presents a significant challenge to his credibility.
For Minister Gamage, the stakes are high. It is imperative that he ensures transparency and accountability, especially when the allegations in question involve the illegal distribution of weapons—a direct threat to national security. Allowing such officials to continue in their roles undermines public trust and sends a dangerous message about the state of governance within Sri Lanka’s sports administration.
Will the Inquiry Be Reopened?
The critical question now is whether Dr. Shemal Fernando, in his current role within the Ministry of Sports, will reopen this inquiry or continue to suppress it. The original order, issued by the Ministry of Defense, demands an impartial investigation to ascertain how such a breach of security could occur under the guise of sports development.
Globally, it is standard practice for officials facing such allegations to step aside while inquiries are conducted. Anything less raises serious ethical and operational concerns. The reluctance to revisit this case suggests an alarming lack of accountability, even in the face of potential national security violations.
Letter sent by R.B.Wickremasinghe of the Ministry of Sports summoning NSSF officials for an inquiry dated 21st March 2018
A Previously Published Scandal
This is not the first time concerns have been raised about the actions of these officials. The allegations of arms smuggling, previously reported in media outlets, were a glaring example of how critical issues can be swept under the rug through undue influence. The nation’s security and the integrity of its institutions should never be compromised to protect the powerful.
Time for Action
Minister Gamage must act decisively to uphold his promise of rooting out corruption and restoring integrity. Reopening this inquiry and holding those responsible accountable will set a precedent for transparency and justice in Sri Lanka’s sports administration. Anything less risks not only the credibility of his ministry but also the safety and security of the nation.
