Bold claims, widening probes, and billions allegedly hidden overseas as Sri Lanka’s new government signals an aggressive crackdown on corruption inherited from past regimes.
Government Media Spokesperson and Cabinet Minister Nalinda Jayatissa says investigations into large-scale fraud and corruption under previous administrations are progressing as part of a massive, coordinated process. He made the remarks while responding to a journalist at a Cabinet media briefing.
The Minister said individuals linked to these cases are being summoned to the Criminal Investigation Department, the Financial Crimes Investigation Division, and the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption to provide evidence.
He emphasized that several investigations have already concluded, with prosecutions and indictments now underway.
When questioned about the widely debated $18 billion allegedly stashed in Uganda, the Minister responded, “Don’t get hung up on the Ugandan issue alone.” He revealed that probes are also examining funds suspected to be hidden in other countries, including Dubai.
Addressing comments attributed to Namal Rajapaksa, the Minister said he was unaware of such claims and stressed that future action would depend strictly on verified facts.
He added that he inherited a state plagued by crime and corruption, insisting all cases must be investigated systematically and without exception.
