By The Pulseline News Desk
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s wife, former First Lady Shiranthi Rajapaksa has been taken into custody by officers of the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) in Kirulapone, following a statement recorded in connection with an ongoing financial investigation.
According to the Bribery Commission, she has allegedly obtained Rs. 10 million from a state bank and misused the funds. The alleged offense reportedly falls under the Public Property Act and laws related to corruption.
The arrest followed questioning and the recording of a statement by CIABOC officials at the Kirulapone residence where former President Mahinda Rajapaksa is currently staying.
The investigation forms part of a wider inquiry into financial transactions and accounts associated with the Siriliya Saviya Foundation, an organisation that operated under her leadership.
Investigation into financial transactions
The case is understood to be linked to broader scrutiny of financial dealings involving the foundation and accounts associated with its activities.
Investigators are examining transactions and the movement of funds as part of efforts to determine whether public money was improperly obtained or used.
The alleged Rs. 10 million transaction is at the centre of the current proceedings, with investigators examining the circumstances under which the funds were obtained and subsequently used.
Shiranthi is expected to be presented before the Colombo Magistrate.
Legal proceedings
The allegations have been brought under provisions dealing with the misuse of public property and corruption. The precise legal consequences will depend on the evidence presented during the investigation and subsequent court proceedings.
An allegation or arrest does not, by itself, establish guilt. The accused is entitled to due process and the presumption of innocence unless and until a court determines otherwise.
The investigation is expected to continue as CIABOC examines relevant financial records, accounts and transactions connected to the case.
The development marks another significant step in the authorities’ broader examination of financial affairs linked to the Siriliya Saviya Foundation and its activities.
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