A large-scale investigation is underway into allegations against several former ministers accused of illegally acquiring and selling government land using forged deeds.
The probe has already led to the arrest and remand of three individuals, including former minister Mervyn Silva, in connection with fraudulent land transactions involving property belonging to the Kiribathgoda Pradeshiya Sabha. The suspects have been remanded until the 17th under the Public Property Act, following evidence presented by the Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID).
Authorities are now actively pursuing former minister Prasanna Ranaweera, who has been implicated in a similar land fraud scheme dating back to 2010. In addition, a former Pradeshiya Sabha member, a businessman, and a lawyer are also under investigation for their alleged roles in forging and selling government land titles.
The specific case under scrutiny involves the fraudulent sale of a government-owned land in the Kiribathgoda area, valued at over Rs. 7.5 crore. With more former MPs and ministers now facing allegations of engaging in similar fraudulent activities, investigators are uncovering the involvement of multiple parties, including legal professionals and business figures.
Law enforcement sources indicate that some suspects are attempting to evade arrest, and efforts are being intensified to bring all individuals involved to justice.
