Colombo: The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) arrested Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe on charges of misusing public money during a 2023 foreign trip. Investigators say he used state funds to finance a personal visit to London.
CID officials revealed that Wickremesinghe allegedly spent nearly LKR 17 million (₹1.7 crore) of government money. They added that 10 others, including senior aides, also played a role in the irregularities.
The arrest has created a political storm across the island nation. Wickremesinghe, who took charge during a severe economic crisis, already faced criticism for his handling of resources. Opposition leaders argue that this arrest proves their claims of corruption at the top.
Legal experts believe the case may take months to settle because of the large volume of financial records. They say the involvement of several officials makes the investigation more complex.
Wickremesinghe’s lawyers have dismissed the allegations. They call the arrest a politically motivated act meant to weaken him. His team plans to challenge the case in court and demand an immediate release.
