Former Minister’s Media Secretary Arrested by CID Over Alleged State Vehicle Misuse

A former media secretary to ex-Minister Wimal Weerawansa has been arrested by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) over allegations of causing a financial loss exceeding Rs. 1.7 million to the government.

The suspect, identified as Prasad Manju, was taken into custody following investigations into the alleged misuse of official vehicles belonging to the Ministry of Construction, Engineering Services and Public Utilities for personal media activities.

Police Spokesman, Assistant Superintendent of Police and Attorney-at-Law Udaya Kumara Woldemar stated that the arrest was made after recording a statement from the suspect who had been summoned to the CID.

According to preliminary investigations, the suspect had been provided with an official vehicle and fuel allowances. In addition, he is also alleged to have used other rented vehicles assigned for government engineering corporation duties for personal media-related work.

Investigators have revealed that these actions caused a financial loss of approximately Rs. 1.746 million to the state.

The suspect, a 52-year-old resident of Malay Street, Colombo 02, has been arrested under charges of misappropriation of state property and offences under the Public Property Act.

CID officials are continuing further investigations, while arrangements are being made to produce the suspect before court.