By Roy Denish.
Gin-Nilwala Diversion Project under investigation by the CID over reported expenditure of Rs. 4.089 billion
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has launched an investigation into the allocation and expenditure of Rs. 4.089 billion reportedly spent on structural and feasibility studies related to the Gin-Nilwala water diversion project.
According to reports, the project came under the purview of the ministers responsible for irrigation during its initial stages, including Nimal Siripala de Silva and Chamal Rajapaksa.
The investigation was initiated following a complaint, together with supporting documentation, submitted to the Secretary to the Ministry of Public Security, retired Senior DIG Ravi Seneviratne.
The complaint was lodged by former ministry secretary Ashoka Peiris and was subsequently referred to the CID for further legal and financial investigation.
According to preliminary information cited in reports, although Rs. 4.089 billion was recorded as having been spent on studies connected to the project, a comprehensive formal feasibility report has reportedly not been submitted or located.
Investigators are also examining claims that the funds were transferred to external accounts in three separate instalments. Reports further state that the final instalment was disbursed on the eve of the 2015 presidential election.
An earlier investigation into the matter was initiated in 2017 by the former Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID). However, the inquiry reportedly stalled following the departure of former Secretary to the Ministry of Irrigation Ivan Silva, who later relocated to New Zealand.
Following the submission of the latest complaint, the CID has resumed investigations into the expenditure and the circumstances surrounding the project.
Authorities are expected to examine whether any financial or administrative irregularities occurred and determine whether individuals connected to the transactions may bear legal responsibility.
This story was originally reported by the Divaina newspaper.
