COLOMBO – In a significant escalation of anti-corruption efforts, the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) has moved to suspend multiple bank accounts belonging to Rakitha Rajapakshe, the son of former Justice Minister Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe.
The freezing of these assets comes as part of an expansive, ongoing probe into financial irregularities. According to investigators, the action has been initiated under the stringent legal provisions governing the seizure and handling of proceeds of crime. While the Commission has remained tight-lipped regarding the specific quantum of funds involved, the move signals a focused effort by state authorities to track and secure assets suspected of being tied to illicit financial activity.
The investigation reached a critical juncture on the evening of October 28, when a specialized team of CIABOC officers arrived at the Nawala residence of the younger Rajapakshe. The primary objective of the visit was to formally serve notice regarding the suspension of his financial accounts. However, the mission faced a procedural delay when officers discovered that Rakitha Rajapakshe was not present at the property at the time of their arrival.
Speaking on the condition of anonymity, a source within the Commission confirmed that the attempt to serve the legal documentation was unsuccessful. “Our officers arrived at the residence in Nawala yesterday to formally notify the individual of the freeze orders,” the official stated. “As the subject was not at home, the notice could not be delivered. We intend to visit the residence again in the coming days to ensure the legal process is duly completed.”
The development has sent ripples through political circles in Colombo, given the prominence of the former Justice Minister’s family. Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe, a veteran political figure, has yet to issue a formal statement regarding the actions taken against his son.
The move by CIABOC is being viewed by legal analysts as a robust application of the commission’s enhanced investigative powers. By targeting the financial pipelines of individuals under scrutiny, the Commission is signaling a shift toward a more aggressive “follow-the-money” strategy in its battle against corruption.
As the investigation progresses, all eyes are on the next move by the CIABOC officers. The commission is expected to make another attempt to serve the notice shortly, which will likely mark the start of a more intense phase of the inquiry. Investigators have indicated that they are prepared to examine further financial records to determine the extent of the alleged proceeds of crime.
For now, the accounts remain restricted under the direct order of the Commission, preventing any transactions or withdrawals until the investigation concludes or further legal directions are provided.
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