News Today: FCCID Investigates Fund Received by 22 MPs

The Financial and Commercial Crime Investigation Division (FCCID) of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has launched an investigation into 22 former Ministers and Members of Parliament (MPs) who allegedly received substantial amounts of money from the Presidential Fund between 2008 and 2024.

Police confirmed that the CID is examining 22 files related to the disbursement of these funds. Preliminary findings suggest that over Rs. 100 million was allocated to these individuals during their terms in office.

The investigation intensified after Minister Nalinda Jayatissa’s revelations in Parliament that 36 former Ministers and MPs had received a total of Rs. 112.5 million from the Presidential Fund between 2005 and 2024. These disbursements were allegedly made under the guise of financial assistance.

Among the individuals named, former Minister Keheliya Rambukwella reportedly received Rs. 11 million, while former Minister Dr. Rajitha Senaratne received Rs. 10 million. Late Prime Minister D.M. Jayaratne, who passed away, was allocated Rs. 30 million, and former MP Ranjith De Zoysa was given Rs. 18 million.

The CID’s investigation also includes other notable figures such as Vasudewa Nanayakkara, Widura Wickremanayake, Wimala Dissanayake, Sumeda Jayasena, and S.B. Nawinna, among others. The officers have now sought permission from the Fort Magistrate’s Court on April 2, 2025, to access detailed information on the checks issued from the Presidential Fund account.

As this investigation unfolds, the focus remains on uncovering the full extent of the disbursements and ensuring transparency in the allocation of public funds. The CID is expected to release further details as they continue to probe these allegations.