Top politicians and ex-defence chief face probe over billions in alleged illegal assets

An investigation has been launched into the alleged illegal accumulation of assets worth billions of rupees by 26 influential political figures and a former top military official by the Illegal Assets Investigation Division, a ‘Divaina’ report said.

The probe, which is currently in its early stages, centres on properties reportedly acquired unlawfully over several years.

Among those under investigation is the former Chief of Defence Staff, General Shavendra Silva.

The list of political figures named in the investigation includes former ministers and MPs including Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena, Mahinda Amaraweera, Chamara Sampath Dassanayake, Dilum Amunugama, Rohitha Abeygunawardena, Pavithra Wanniarachchi, Kanchana Wijesekara, Sagala Ratnayaka, Tissa Kuttiarachchi, Wajira Abeywardena, Mahipala Herath, Anura Priyadarshana Yapa, Manusha Nanayakkara, Vadivel Suresh, Thushara Sanjeewa Pathirana, Harshana Rajakaruna, Shanakiyan Rasamanickam, Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan alias Pillayan, S.M. Chandrasena, and Shantha Abeysekara.

An investigator said the ill-gotten wealth of these persons will be acquired and reported to the courts.