Upon seeing the sand layers, a bribe of 500 per cube was demanded for their removal.

A complaint has been lodged with the police against an independent member of the Arachchikattuwa Pradeshiya Sabha regarding an incident where he allegedly demanded a bribe of Rs. 500 for every cubic meter of sand removed from a contractor. The contractor was engaged in removing sand layers that had accumulated in paddy fields during the Ditwa cyclone. It is reported that this complaint was received by the Arachchikattuwa Police yesterday (02) afternoon.

During the Ditwa cyclone, a significant amount of sand accumulated in the paddy fields due to the breaching of the Anavilundawa and Suruvila tank bunds. The police state that the contractor had obtained proper authorization from the Arachchikattuwa Divisional Secretariat and the Suruvila Farmers' Association to remove this accumulated sand.

While the contractor was engaged in piling the sand accumulated in the paddy fields to one side of the same paddy field, the relevant Pradeshiya Sabha member arrived at the location. It is stated that the member then demanded Rs. 500 for each cubic meter of sand removed, and consequently, the individual involved in the work lodged a complaint with the police.

According to the complaint received, the Arachchikattuwa Police state that an investigation has been launched concerning the relevant Pradeshiya Sabha member.