News Today: Massive Fire at Krish Building, Colombo Fort

A massive fire broke out at the Krish building in Colombo Fort just minutes ago, sending thick plumes of smoke into the sky. Firefighters from the Colombo Fire Service Department have been deployed to contain the blaze, with emergency services rushing to the scene. The cause of the fire remains unknown, and authorities are yet to provide further details.

This incident comes just a day after the Colombo High Court ordered Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) Parliamentarian Namal Rajapaksa to appear in court on February 18th regarding the controversial Krish deal case filed by the Attorney General. The case, originally initiated by a complaint from Wasantha Samarasinghe, the convener of the Anti-Corruption Voice Committee, dates back to 2016.

Following investigations conducted by the Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID), the Attorney General filed an indictment against Namal Rajapaksa, alleging criminal misappropriation involving the receipt of Rs. 70 million from the Indian company Krish. The funds were reportedly obtained under the pretext of promoting rugby in Sri Lanka.

Authorities are expected to launch a thorough investigation into the fire, given its timing in relation to the high-profile court case. Colombo Fort remains on high alert as emergency teams battle the flames. More updates will follow as the situation develops.