The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) on Monday questioned former ministers Prasanna Ranatunga and Chamal Rajapaksa regarding their alleged connections to notorious underworld figure Kehelbaddara Padme.
The inquiry follows the high-profile arrest of Padme in Indonesia last August and his subsequent repatriation to Sri Lanka. Police sources indicate that investigators are looking into potential links between political figures and the suspect’s organized crime network, which includes allegations of drug trafficking and arms dealing
Speaking to reporters outside the CID headquarters, Ranatunga dismissed the allegations of criminal ties, though he admitted a passing acquaintance with the suspect’s family.
“I know his father, as he is from our area. But I have no links whatsoever with the underworld figure,” Ranatunga stated.
He further noted that he had already provided investigators with details regarding his limited interaction with the family.
Chamal Rajapaksa left the premises without making a statement to the press. The questioning comes as part of a wider crackdown on the “Kehelbaddara Padme” syndicate. Recent CID summons have also been issued to other members of the Rajapaksa family, including Namal Rajapaksa, who was requested to provide a statement regarding the same organized crime inquiry.
Police officials confirmed that further statements may be recorded as the investigation continues into the group’s illegal assets and transnational operations. (Newswire)
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