National Freedom Front leader and former Minister Wimal Weerawansa was summoned to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) today to provide a statement. This development is linked to a controversial comment he made during a children’s television program broadcast on March 3, 2022, which has since become a focal point in ongoing investigations.
Weerawansa arrived at the CID headquarters in Colombo in response to a formal notice. Authorities are investigating his remarks, which allegedly hinted at financial irregularities involving former Minister Basil Rajapaksa.
According to sources within the CID, Weerawansa’s statement is being recorded as part of an inquiry under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. The investigation is reportedly centered on claims of illicit financial transactions and corruption involving Rajapaksa during his tenure as a senior government minister.
The probe gained momentum after multiple allegations surfaced, connecting Basil Rajapaksa to questionable financial dealings and the alleged misuse of state funds. Weerawansa, who has often been outspoken about corruption in government, previously hinted at possessing critical information regarding these allegations. CID officials are now pressing him to substantiate these claims with concrete evidence.
This investigation is part of a broader crackdown on financial misconduct among prominent political figures. Legal analysts suggest that the Prevention of Money Laundering Act gives law enforcement agencies the authority to investigate, freeze assets, and prosecute individuals suspected of using state power for personal financial gain.
Outside the CID office, Weerawansa briefly addressed reporters, reiterating his commitment to exposing corruption and calling for an impartial investigation. He emphasized the need for accountability and stated that his remarks in 2022 were meant to highlight systemic issues, not to target individuals unfairly.
The outcome of today’s questioning could have significant political ramifications, potentially impacting both Weerawansa’s political standing and Basil Rajapaksa’s legal troubles.
