Legendary 1996 World Cup-winning captain and former Sri Lankan minister, Arjuna Ranatunga, is facing arrest in a corruption case. The Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) informed the Colombo Court on Monday that they will take Ranatunga into custody upon his return from abroad. The case centers on allegations of causing a loss of 800 million Sri Lankan Rupees (approx. ₹23.5 crores) to the state during his tenure as Petroleum Minister.
The allegations state that during 2017, when Ranatunga was minister, his brother Dhammika Ranatunga, as Chairman of the state-run Ceylon Petroleum Corporation, altered the terms of long-term oil purchase agreements. This led to 17 spot purchases at higher prices, causing massive losses. Dhammika has already been arrested and granted bail, with a travel ban imposed.
Crackdown on High-Profile Corruption: Arjuna Ranatunga corruption case
This move is part of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s government’s stringent anti-corruption drive. Another brother, former minister Prasanna Ranatunga, was also arrested last month in a separate insurance fraud case. The Arjuna Ranatunga corruption case highlights the government’s focus on holding influential figures accountable.
FAQs: Arjuna Ranatunga Corruption Case
Q1: What are the charges against Arjuna Ranatunga?
A1: He is accused of misuse of power and causing a loss of about 800 million LKR to the state petroleum corporation during his term as minister.
Q2: Has Arjuna Ranatunga been arrested?
A2: Not yet. Authorities have informed the court he will be arrested upon his return to Sri Lanka from abroad.
Q3: Is his brother involved?
A3: Yes, his brother Dhammika Ranatunga has already been arrested and granted bail in the same Arjuna Ranatunga corruption case.
Conclusion: Arjuna Ranatunga corruption case
The unfolding Arjuna Ranatunga corruption case marks a significant moment in Sri Lanka’s anti-corruption efforts. As legal proceedings advance, the case draws international attention due to Ranatunga’s iconic status in cricket. The outcome will be closely watched, reflecting on the nation’s governance and judicial process. The Arjuna Ranatunga corruption case continues to develop.
Disclaimer: This article reports on ongoing legal proceedings. All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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