Namal Shiranthi give statements and leave - Nalintha says that gathering crowds affects investigations

Former First Lady Shiranthi Rajapaksa and Member of Parliament Namal Rajapaksa appeared before the Police Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID) and the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) today (03). It is noteworthy that on both these occasions, they were questioned for over four hours and statements were recorded in connection with the relevant investigations.

Shiranthi Rajapaksa arrived at the Police Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID) today around 9:30 AM to provide information regarding an ongoing investigation into the "Siriliya" account. Allegations of financial irregularities have been made through this account, which she maintained as a joint account with two others during the period when Mahinda Rajapaksa held the presidency. Although she was previously summoned on January 27th, she did not appear on that day and requested another date, which is why she was summoned today.

Meanwhile, MP Namal Rajapaksa had arrived at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to give a statement regarding an allegation of maintaining connections with 'Kehelbadde Padme', who is considered a member and leader of an organized crime gang. The MP, who had previously stated that he could not appear on the given date due to being abroad, arrived today around 10:15 AM and remained there for over four hours.

At the time of their departure from the respective investigative divisions, Shiranthi Rajapaksa and MP Namal Rajapaksa were met by a large number of Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) supporters gathered at those locations.

Meanwhile, Cabinet Spokesperson Minister Nalinda Jayatissa stated that the government has taken steps to expedite investigations into corruption and irregularities. He emphasized that special High Courts have already been established for this purpose, and more such courts are to be established in the future to hear cases related to controversial incidents.

The Minister accused Namal Rajapaksa of attempting to directly or indirectly influence investigations by bringing a large crowd when summoned. The Minister pointed out that this is a political spectacle similar to what was done in early 2015, and stated that if crowds continue to be brought in the future, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) would provide a few days' notice to facilitate the arrangement of buses.