By Roy Denish.
Shiran Basik investigation widens as police prepare to question 10 politicians over alleged financial links, campaign funds and favors.
The Shiran Basik investigation is set to widen as the Central Criminal Investigation Bureau prepares to question 10 prominent politicians over alleged financial links and other benefits connected to the detained drug trafficker.
Shiran Basik, who was arrested in Dubai and brought back to Sri Lanka, remains in CCIB detention. Police sources said investigators are examining claims that several political figures maintained close ties with him and received millions of rupees and various favors.
According to information reportedly disclosed during Basik’s interrogation, the CCIB is now preparing to question the politicians identified during the inquiry.
Ministers, MP Among Politicians Under Scrutiny
Police sources said those expected to face questioning include two former cabinet ministers, two current ministers, a sitting Member of Parliament, and several other well-known political figures.
Investigators allege that Basik periodically provided large sums of money to the 10 politicians to support election campaign activities.
The Shiran Basik investigation has also uncovered allegations involving apartments and hotels. Investigators reportedly found that a senior minister from the previous government facilitated unauthorized land filling, allowing Basik to construct apartments and hotels.
In return for those alleged favors, the former minister reportedly received substantial sums of money from Basik on several occasions. Investigators also believe Basik had financially supported the politicians over a prolonged period.
IGP Attorney-at-Law Priyantha Weerasooriya said authorities would investigate politicians who maintained contact with Basik and received financial or other benefits, based on disclosures made during his interrogation.
Police sources added that Basik remains under extended interrogation. Investigators are also examining assets worth millions of rupees as the CCIB continues its broader inquiry.
The bureau is continuing its comprehensive probe into the wider affair.
