Colombo – May 29, 2025 — A formal complaint has been filed with the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) requesting an investigation into serious allegations involving Minister Bimal Ratnayake and the controversial release of 323 shipping containers without proper customs inspection.
The complaint, lodged by Attorney-at-Law Nalin Sampath Kumara, calls on the CID to initiate a full inquiry into the matter, particularly focusing on public claims made by Parliamentarian Dayasiri Jayasekara and former MP Udaya Gammanpila. Both have alleged, through social media and mainstream media platforms, that the containers released on January 18 may have contained illegal items such as narcotics and firearms, and that the incident has contributed to a rise in crime across the country.
Speaking to the press after submitting the complaint, Kumara emphasized that if MPs Jayasekara and Gammanpila made such public allegations, they must possess credible information. He urged authorities to record statements from both politicians and investigate the veracity of their claims. “They have made serious accusations, but neither of them has filed a formal complaint with a competent investigative agency,” he said.
He added that the public deserves to know the truth about the container release, especially in light of the national security and criminal implications being suggested. “A fair and independent investigation should be conducted after recording their statements,” Kumara said.
The CID has not yet issued a statement on whether it will proceed with an official inquiry.
The incident has added a new layer of controversy to Sri Lanka’s political landscape, as questions mount over customs oversight, transparency, and the responsibilities of public officials in making or addressing high-profile accusations.
