Sri Lankan authorities are pursuing an investigation into an alleged USD 6.7 million loss involving the importation of substandard organic fertilizer during the former Rajapaksa administration.
The Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) has informed the Colombo Magistrate's Court that it is continuing its probe into alleged financial losses stemming from a fertilizer importation deal that occurred during the tenure of former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. According to CIABOC, the government sustained losses exceeding USD 6.7 million through the transaction.
The investigation centers on the importation of approximately 20,000 metric tonnes of organic fertilizer sourced from a Chinese company, which authorities allege was substandard. Criminal proceedings have been filed against former Agriculture Minister Mahindananda Aluthgamage alongside other suspects in connection with the matter. Aluthgamage, who is currently incarcerated on separate charges, appeared in court through prison officials for the hearing.
During proceedings before Colombo Chief Magistrate Asanga S. Bodaragama, CIABOC representatives requested additional time to complete their investigations and compile findings for court submission. The magistrate granted the request and scheduled the case for further hearing on December 4, with CIABOC directed to provide a progress report at that time.
