World · Sri Lanka Bureau
Former land official arrested over alleged Rs 1.58bn fraud scheme
A former Commissioner (Investigations) at the Department of Land Title Settlement has been taken into custody by the Bribery Commission. The arrest follows allegations of involvement in a substantial state land fraud case.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
The ex-official was arrested as part of an ongoing investigation into the misappropriation of state land valued at approximately Rs 1.58 billion, according to sources familiar with the matter. The Bribery Commission, tasked with investigating corruption-related offences, initiated proceedings against the former commissioner based on accumulated evidence.
The Department of Land Title Settlement handles the registration and documentation of land ownership across Sri Lanka. Allegations against the former official suggest misconduct in his investigative role within the department, potentially facilitating irregular transfers or registrations of state-owned property.
The arrest represents the latest in a series of investigations targeting officials within Sri Lanka's land administration system. These probes have aimed to address concerns about irregularities in property transactions and potential collusion between officials and private parties.
The Bribery Commission has not released detailed information regarding specific charges or the grounds for the arrest. Preliminary investigations are understood to be ongoing as authorities work to establish the full scope of the alleged fraudulent activities and determine whether additional individuals are implicated.