Bribery Scandal Unveils: Arrest of Former Cricketer & Minister Arjuna Ranatunga Looms

Sri Lanka’s Bribery Commission is set to arrest ex-cricketer and minister Arjuna Ranatunga related to an Rs. 800 million corruption case at the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation. Court proceedings disclosed his overseas status hindering immediate arrest, with bail being granted under specific conditions.

Sri Lanka's anti-corruption body, the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC), announced plans to arrest Arjuna Ranatunga, a former cricket captain and minister. He is a key suspect in a case involving an alleged loss of Rs. 800 million at the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) due to overpriced spot tenders, as per reports by Daily Mirror.

The announcement came as Dhammika Ranatunga, former CPC Chairman, appeared in court following his arrest over similar charges. Assistant Director Anusha Sammandapperuma, representing the Bribery Commission, disclosed that three long-term tenders had been canceled, leading to spot tenders that allegedly caused significant financial losses.

While Arjuna Ranatunga was named suspect alongside Dhammika Ranatunga, his arrest has been delayed as he is currently overseas. However, defense Attorney Saliya Pieris assured the court of his client's cooperation with the investigation, resulting in Ranatunga's release on bail with strict travel restrictions.

(With inputs from agencies.)