Parliamentarian Namal Rajapaksa was arrested by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) on Friday, September 4th, in connection with an investigation into alleged bribery concerning a SriLankan Airlines Airbus deal. He was subsequently produced before the Colombo Chief Magistrate’s Court.
The CIABOC investigation specifically relates to allegations of receiving a bribe of Rs 100 million during a transaction involving the purchase of wide-body aircraft for the national carrier. The commission stated that a businessman has provided evidence in relation to this complex financial operation. Rajapaksa was arrested around 2:09 PM on September 4th, after providing his statement to the commission.
Initially, Rajapaksa's lawyer confirmed his client's willingness to cooperate with investigations, stating that it was the best method to prove his innocence. Rajapaksa had also voiced criticism against the government, asserting that attempts to exert pressure or fear tactics were futile. He was first summoned to appear before CIABOC on September 4th, at 9 a.m., a date which the commission did not grant his request for an alternative.
Early reports indicated the summons was delivered via WhatsApp, but this was later clarified to be a written notification. While the specific reason for the summons was initially officially undisclosed, reports soon linked it to an investigation into alleged bribery concerning the establishment of a wide-body aircraft fleet for SriLankan Airlines, specifically an Airbus deal.
Upon his arrival at CIABOC, Rajapaksa told reporters he had done nothing wrong and was prepared to face independent investigations. Following his arrest and court appearance, arrangements were made for him to attend Parliament sittings on September 8th, following his request for necessary facilities.
In a related development, former Minister and former Speaker Chamal Rajapaksa appeared before the CIABOC on September 8th to provide a statement in connection with the same controversial Airbus deal. He arrived at approximately 10:00 a.m. and recorded a statement for approximately one to one and a half hours before leaving the premises.
Separately, Namal Rajapaksa also mentioned he is awaiting a summons from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) for a statement concerning a visit to Pillaiyan, adding he has questions for the investigators.