Eight politicians in drug kingpin probe
Police to arrest and question four former ministers, others over links to Basik By Norman Palihawadane Police are investigating alleged links between suspected major drug trafficker Shiran Basik and a number of prominent politicians, with eight of them due to be arrested and questioned as investigators widen their probe into his financial dealings and network of associates, police headquarters,…
Eight politicians are under investigation for alleged connections to suspected major drug trafficker Shiran Basik, according to police in Sri Lanka. The probe, conducted by the Colombo Central Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB), has led to the planned arrest and questioning of four current and former ministers, as well as other prominent politicians.
Basik, 48, was deported back to Sri Lanka from Dubai on August 14 and is currently in custody at the CCIB. He faces charges related to drug trafficking, firearms, and unlawful assembly, as well as potential involvement in the 2012 Welikada Prison riot. The investigation has also revealed allegations that Basik provided financial support to politicians during election campaigns and granted them other benefits such as funding for house and hotel construction.
Two electoral organizers are also expected to face questioning. Basik's mobile phone and business records, including those from businesses allegedly linked to him, are being examined as part of the ongoing investigation. The CCIB is leading the probe, with Senior DIG Ranmal Kodituwakku and SSP Kamal Ariyawansa overseeing the operation.
The allegations against Basik and the politicians have not been proven in court, and the investigations continue.
Written by urgent.news from The Island Sri Lanka's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
