Former State Minister Shasheendra Rajapaksa and two co‑accused were served indictments before the Colombo High Court on corruption charges, with Judge Ravindra Premaratne ordering their release on two personal bails of Rs. 1 million each. 

The court also imposed a foreign travel ban on the accused and directed that their fingerprints be obtained and a report submitted. 

The case has been fixed for pre‑trial conference on August 5.

The indictments, filed by the Bribery Commission, name Sepalika Saman Kumari and Keerthi Bandara Kotagama as co‑accused. 

The charges stem from allegations that the accused used official authority to pressure government officials into facilitating compensation payments of Rs. 8.85 million for property, including a building illegally constructed on Mahaweli Authority land in Sewanagala, Kiriibbanwewa, damaged during the May 9, 2022 Aragalaya protests.

The Bribery Commission alleges this amounted to committing and abetting the offence of corruption. (Newswire)

The post Corruption case : Indictments filed against Shasheendra Rajapaksa appeared first on Newswire.

The Bribery Commission today filed indictments before the Colombo High Court against former State Minister Shasheendra Rajapaksa and two others on corruption charges.

The indictment names Sepalika Saman Kumari and Keerthi Bandara Kotagama as co‑accused. Ten charges have been presented, supported by 30 witnesses and 38 documents as case productions.

According to the charges, the accused allegedly used official authority to pressure government officials attached to the compensation office to secure Rs. 8.85 million in compensation for property, including a building illegally constructed on Mahaweli Authority land in Sewanagala, Kiriibbanwewa, damaged during the May 9, 2022 protest. 

The Bribery Commission alleges this amounted to committing and abetting corruption. The case is scheduled to proceed before the Colombo High Court. (Newswire)

The post Indictments filed against Shasheendra Rajapaksa over corruption allegations appeared first on Newswire.

The Colombo Magistrate’s Court has granted bail to former state minister Shasheendra Rajapaksa, who was arrested and remanded in connection with the case filed on corruption and the misuse of a property belonging to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority.

He has been released on two sureties of Rs. 02 million each and a cash bail of Rs. 50,000. The court has also imposed an overseas travel ban on Shasheendra Rajapaksa. 

The former state minister was arrested in August this year over allegations of illegally constructing a farm building on land belonging to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority, located near the Kiriibbanwewa reservoir in Sevanagala.

Following the destruction of this building during the ‘Aragalaya’ protests in May 2022, it was confirmed that the land belonged to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority.

Despite this, Rajapaksa is alleged to have pressured relevant officials, misusing his authority, to secure approval for the reconstruction of the building.

Stating that these actions constitute charges of corruption, conspiracy, and illegal occupation of state property, the Bribery Commission arrested him on charges of offences related to the misuse of state property. (Newswire)

The post Corruption case : Shasheendra Rajapaksa granted bail appeared first on Newswire.

The former Acting Director General of the Office for Reparations has been arrested by the Bribery Commission over a suspected compensation fraud involving land owned by the Mahaweli Authority. 

According to the Bribery Commission, the accused currently serves as the Additional Secretary to the Ministry of Justice and was arrested this morning. 

She is accused of conspiring with former State Minister Shasheendra Rajapaksa during the compensation process for a Mahaweli Authority property damaged in the 2022 ‘Aragalaya’ protests, specifically the Kiribbanwewa site, which was set ablaze.

The official is identified as the second suspect in the bribery investigation against Shasheendra Rajapaksa. She allegedly pressured government officials to approve a compensation payment of Rs. 885,000, misusing state property in the process, during her tenure as the former Acting Director General of the Office for Reparations.

Her arrest is linked to aiding and abetting former State Minister Shasheendra Rajapaksa. The suspect is scheduled to be presented before the Colombo Chief Magistrate today. (Newswire)

The post Ex-Reparations official arrested in bribery probe linked to Shasheendra appeared first on Newswire.

The Colombo Chief Magistrate’s Court has rejected Former State Minister Shasheendra Rajapaksa’s bail application and further remanded him. 

Shasheendra Rajapaksa has been further remanded until September 30 by the Colombo Chief Magistrate’s Court.

The former state minister is accused of illegally constructing a farm building on land belonging to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority, located near the Kiriibbanwewa reservoir in Sevanagala.

Following the destruction of this building during the ‘Aragalaya’ protests in May 2022, it was later confirmed that the land belonged to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority.

Despite this, Rajapaksa is alleged to have pressured relevant officials, misusing his authority, to secure approval for the reconstruction of the building.

Stating that these actions constitute charges of corruption, conspiracy, and illegal occupation of state property, the Bribery Commission arrested him on charges of offences related to the misuse of state property. (Newswire)

The post Court rejects Shasheendra Rajapaksa’s bail application appeared first on Newswire.

Former State Minister Shasheendra Rajapaksa has been further remanded until Sept. 22 by the Colombo Magistrate’s Court.

The case was postponed to next Monday due to the absence of Colombo Chief Magistrate Asanka S. Bodaragama, who is currently on leave.

Rajapaksa was ordered to remain in custody until that date, when a decision on his bail application is also expected.

The former state minister is accused of illegally constructing a farm building on land belonging to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority, located near the Kiriibbanwewa reservoir in Sevanagala.

Following the destruction of this building during the ‘Aragalaya’ protests in May 2022, it was later confirmed that the land belonged to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority.

Despite this, Rajapaksa is alleged to have pressured relevant officials, misusing his authority, to secure approval for the reconstruction of the building.

Stating that these actions constitute charges of corruption, conspiracy, and illegal occupation of state property, the Bribery Commission arrested him on charges of offences related to the misuse of state property. (Newswire)

The post Shasheendra Rajapaksa further remanded appeared first on Newswire.

Former State Minister Shasheendra Rajapaksa, who was arrested in connection with corruption allegations, has been further remanded until 19th September.

The Colombo Magistrate’s Court further remanded Shasheendra Rajapaksa after he was produced before the court today. 

The Bribery Commission arrested Rajapaksa in August in connection with a probe into corruption and the misuse of a property belonging to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority.

Shasheendra Rajapaksa is accused of illegally constructing a farm building on land belonging to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority, located near the Kiriibbanwewa reservoir in Sevanagala.

Following the destruction of this building during the ‘Aragalaya’ protests in May 2022, it was later confirmed that the land belonged to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority. 

Despite this, Rajapaksa is alleged to have pressured relevant officials, misusing his authority, to secure approval for the reconstruction of the building. 

Stating that these actions constitute charges of corruption, conspiracy, and illegal occupation of state property, the Bribery Commission arrested him on charges of offences related to the misuse of state property. (Newswire)

The post Corruption : Shasheendra Rajapaksa further remanded appeared first on Newswire.

Former State Minister Shasheendra Rajapaksa, who was arrested in connection with corruption allegations, has been further remanded until 12th September.

The Colombo Magistrate’s Court further remanded Shasheendra Rajapaksa after he was produced before the court today. 

The Bribery Commission arrested Rajapaksa on 06th August in connection with a probe into corruption and the misuse of a property belonging to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority.

Shasheendra Rajapaksa is accused of illegally constructing a farm building on land belonging to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority, located near the Kiriibbanwewa reservoir in Sevanagala.

Following the destruction of this building during the ‘Aragalaya’ public protests on 09 May 2022, it was later confirmed that the land belonged to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority. 

Despite this, Rajapaksa is alleged to have pressured relevant officials, misusing his authority, to secure approval for the reconstruction of the building. 

Stating that these actions constitute charges of corruption, conspiracy, and illegal occupation of state property, the Bribery Commission arrested him on charges of offences related to the misuse of state property. (Newswire)

The post Corruption : Shasheendra Rajapaksa further remanded appeared first on Newswire.

Former State Minister Shasheendra Rajapaksa, who was arrested in connection with corruption allegations, has been further remanded until 29th August.

The Colombo Magistrate’s Court further remanded Shasheendra Rajapaksa after he was produced before the court today. 

The Bribery Commission arrested Rajapaksa on 06th August in connection with a probe into corruption and the misuse of a property belonging to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority.

Shasheendra Rajapaksa is accused of illegally constructing a farm building on land belonging to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority, located near the Kiriibbanwewa reservoir in Sevanagala.

Following the destruction of this building during the ‘Aragalaya’ public protests on 09 May 2022, it was later confirmed that the land belonged to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority. 

Despite this, Rajapaksa is alleged to have pressured relevant officials, misusing his authority, to secure approval for the reconstruction of the building. 

Stating that these actions constitute charges of corruption, conspiracy, and illegal occupation of state property, the Bribery Commission arrested him on charges of offences related to the misuse of state property. (Newswire)

The post Corruption : Shasheendra Rajapaksa further remanded appeared first on Newswire.

The Colombo Magistrate’s Court has been informed that former State Minister Shasheendra Rajapaksa suffers from insomnia and hence requires medical assistance for his condition. 

The information was disclosed when Shasheendra Rajapaksa, who is in remand custody in connection with corruption and the misuse of a property belonging to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority, was presented before the Court yesterday. 

During the case hearing, Rajapaksa’s lawyers informed the court that, in the event he is not medically assisted for insomnia, he could face high blood pressure, leading to death. 

The lawyers also informed the court that Rajapaksa was scheduled to take the first-year exam of the Law Degree at Buckinghamshire University in October this year. 

Pointing out that continuously placing his client in remand custody could affect his chances of attending the examination, the lawyers requested the court to consider this as a key factor in deciding bail.

Taking into consideration the facts presented, Colombo Magistrate Thanuja Lakmali ordered Shasheendra Rajapaksa to be remanded until 26th August. 

The Bribery Commission arrested Rajapaksa on 06th August in connection with a probe into corruption and the misuse of a property belonging to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority.

Shasheendra Rajapaksa is accused of illegally constructing a farm building on land belonging to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority, located near the Kiriibbanwewa reservoir in Sevanagala.

Following the destruction of this building during the ‘Aragalaya’ public protests on 09 May 2022, it was later confirmed that the land belonged to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority. 

Despite this, Rajapaksa is alleged to have pressured relevant officials, misusing his authority, to secure approval for the reconstruction of the building. (Newswire)

The post Court urged to consider Shasheendra’s insomnia for bail appeared first on Newswire.

Former State Minister Shasheendra Rajapaksa, who was arrested in connection with corruption allegations, has been further remanded until 26th August.

The Colombo Magistrate’s Court further remanded Shasheendra Rajapaksa after he was produced before the court today. 

The Bribery Commission arrested Rajapaksa on 06th August in connection with a probe into corruption and the misuse of a property belonging to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority.

Shasheendra Rajapaksa is accused of illegally constructing a farm building on land belonging to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority, located near the Kiriibbanwewa reservoir in Sevanagala.

Following the destruction of this building during the ‘Aragalaya’ public protests on 09 May 2022, it was later confirmed that the land belonged to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority. 

Despite this, Rajapaksa is alleged to have pressured relevant officials, misusing his authority, to secure approval for the reconstruction of the building. 

Stating that these actions constitute charges of corruption, conspiracy, and illegal occupation of state property, the Bribery Commission arrested him on charges of offences related to the misuse of state property. (Newswire)

The post Corruption : Shasheendra Rajapaksa further remanded appeared first on Newswire.

Former State Minister Shasheendra Rajapaksa, who was arrested in connection with corruption allegations, has been remanded until 19th August.

The Colombo Magistrate’s Court remanded Shasheendra Rajapaksa after he was arrested by the Bribery Commission earlier today. 

According to the Bribery Commission, the former State Minister was arrested in connection with a probe into corruption and the misuse of a property belonging to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority.

In a statement, the Bribery Commission said Shasheendra Rajapaksa is accused of illegally constructing a farm building on land belonging to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority, located near the Kiriibbanwewa reservoir in Sevanagala.

Following the destruction of this building during the ‘Aragalaya’ public protests on 09 May 2022, it was later confirmed that the land belonged to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority. 

Despite this, Rajapaksa is alleged to have pressured relevant officials, misusing his authority, to secure approval for the reconstruction of the building. 

The Bribery Commission says these actions constitute charges of corruption, conspiracy, and illegal occupation of state property.

Shasheendra Rajapaksa was arrested on charges under Section 5(1) of the amended 1982 Act No. 12, as per the 1999 Act No. 28, which addresses offences related to the misuse of state property. (Newswire)

The post Corruption : Shasheendra Rajapaksa remanded appeared first on Newswire.

The Bribery Commission says former State Minister Shasheendra Rajapaksa was arrested today in connection with a probe into corruption and the misuse of a property belonging to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority.

According to the Bribery Commission, Shasheendra Rajapaksa is accused of illegally constructing a farm building on land belonging to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority, located near the Kiriibbanwewa reservoir in Sevanagala.

Following the destruction of this building during the ‘Aragalaya’ public protests on 09 May 2022, it was later confirmed that the land belonged to the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority. 

Despite this, Rajapaksa is alleged to have pressured relevant officials, misusing his authority, to secure approval for the reconstruction of the building. 

The Bribery Commission says these actions constitute charges of corruption, conspiracy, and illegal occupation of state property.

Shasheendra Rajapaksa was arrested on charges under Section 5(1) of the amended 1982 Act No. 12, as per the 1999 Act No. 28, which addresses offences related to the misuse of state property. 

He is scheduled to be presented before the Colombo Chief Magistrate’s Court. (Newswire)

The post Why was Shasheendra arrested? appeared first on Newswire.

Former State Minister Shasheendra Rajapaksa has been arrested by officials from the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC).

It is reported that Shasheendra Rajapaksa was arrested at his home in Nugegoda this morning. (Newswire)

The post Former State Minister Shasheendra Rajapaksa arrested appeared first on Newswire.

Former State Minister Shasheendra Rajapaksa arrived at the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) today. 

Shasheendra Rajapaksa has reported to the Bribery Commission to record a statement regarding fertiliser importation during his tenure as a government official.

Speaking to the media after recording his statement, Shasheendra Rajapaksa said he had provided the relevant details required to conduct a proper and accurate investigation. 

“I have no connections to this. Let’s wait and see what they decide,” he said, when asked if he would be arrested over the incident. (Newswire)

The post Shasheendra Rajapaksa arrives at Bribery Commission appeared first on Newswire.

The Uma Oya project is expected to add 120 MW of electricity to the national grid by February 15th, State Minister of Irrigation, Shasheendra Rajapaksa announced.

The State Minister said that this marks a significant step towards improving Sri Lanka’s energy security.

He made the remark at a Press Briefing held today (Jan 26), where he outlined ambitious plans to increase the country’s electricity generation and food production in 2024. 

The State Minister also revealed plans to utilize 31 identified reservoirs for floating solar power plants, with the potential to generate an additional 3077 MW of electricity. This innovative approach leverages existing infrastructure and resources to address the country’s growing energy needs.

He emphasized the Ministry of Irrigation’s commitment to enhancing food security, highlighting its role as a key contributor to national food production. He acknowledged the substantial budget allocation of Rs. 23,413 million for the Ministry, with Rs. 6,913 million dedicated to reservoir maintenance and Rs. 16,500 million earmarked for large-scale irrigation projects. This investment demonstrates the government’s prioritization of food security and sustainable agricultural practices.

State Minister Rajapaksa’s announcements indicate a future Sri Lanka powered by renewable energy and abundant food production. The Uma Oya project’s imminent completion and the ambitious plans for floating solar panels are promising steps towards energy independence. Additionally, the significant budget allocation for irrigation projects underscores the government’s commitment to food security and agricultural development. These initiatives offer hope for a brighter future for Sri Lanka’s economy and its people.

The Mahaweli Development Authority has received a significant boost with a local fund allocation of Rs. 4,678 million. Agriculture takes the lion’s share with Rs. 1,590 million, followed by Rs. 930 million dedicated to livestock development. These investments aim to revitalize Sri Lanka’s rural economy and enhance food security.

The Ministry of Irrigation continues to spearhead large-scale multipurpose development projects, largely funded by foreign loans. One such project, the Uma Oya project, is nearing completion and is expected to contribute 120 MW of electricity capacity to the national grid by February 15. This marks a significant step towards increasing Sri Lanka’s energy independence.

The government is placing strong emphasis on renewable energy sources like solar and hydropower. Several special programs are underway this year to integrate these sources into the national grid. Notably, the initiative to utilize solar cells on land, surface, and water, showcases the commitment to innovative solutions for a sustainable energy future, he said.

The State Minister pointed out that in essence, these initiatives highlight Sri Lanka’s multi-pronged approach to rural development, infrastructure upgrade, and clean energy solutions. The combined efforts of the Mahaweli Development Authority and the Ministry of Irrigation, coupled with the focus on renewable energy, promise a brighter future for the country’s economic and environmental well-being.

The Mahaweli Water Security Investment Program has undertaken significant infrastructure projects to address water scarcity issues in Sri Lanka. In collaboration with the Uma Oya project, this program aims to provide irrigation for both existing and new paddy fields.

One key initiative is the restoration of the Minipe Canal. Its embankment has been raised by 3.5 meters, significantly increasing its capacity. Additionally, the program is constructing the North-West Provincial Canal, a 90-kilometer long canal utilizing an 11-kilometer tunnel, further expanding water distribution capabilities.

The program is exploring the potential of solar power generation by identifying 31 reservoirs suitable for floating solar panels. This effort, involving both the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority and the Irrigation Department, could harness 2524 MW of power from 14 Mahaweli Authority reservoirs and 553 MW from 17 Irrigation Department reservoirs. These initiatives, all implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Power and Energy, hold great promise for enhancing water security and sustainable energy production in Sri Lanka, he said.

The State Minister of Irrigation further said that the North Central Grand Canal brings life-giving water to both people and crops. It ensures year-round irrigation for 7 main tanks and 350 smaller ones, boosting agricultural productivity and food security. Moreover, clean drinking water now reaches 185,000 people, a testament to prioritizing their well-being.

Furthering this commitment to rural development, the World Bank has provided USD 25 million to empower farmers. This investment strengthens farmer organizations, equipping them with the tools and resources to thrive economically, creating a ripple effect that bolsters national food security. The Grand Canal, therefore, stands as a symbol of progress, nourishing both the land and its people, he added. (NewsWire)

The post Uma Oya project : 120 MW of electricity to be added to National Grid in February appeared first on Newswire.