Sri Lankan police are widening a probe into suspected major drug trafficker Shiran Basik to include eight prominent politicians, including a sitting MP and four former ministers, over allegations of financial support during elections and other benefits.

Police investigations into suspected drug trafficker Shiran Basik have expanded to include eight politicians who are expected to be arrested and questioned, according to senior police officers. The group includes one sitting MP, four former ministers, and at least one female politician. The expansion follows information allegedly disclosed by Basik during his own interrogation.

Investigators are examining claims that Basik provided substantial financial support to politicians during election campaigns and offered various material benefits to political figures. Police are also investigating allegations that two politicians received assistance in constructing houses and hotels. The scope of political support and protection allegedly extended to Basik remains under investigation. Additionally, two electoral organisers are expected to be questioned as part of the ongoing inquiry.

Basik, 48, was deported from Dubai to Sri Lanka on August 14 and taken into custody at Bandaranaike International Airport. He faces investigations into large-scale drug trafficking, firearms offences, and alleged involvement in prison-related incidents. Police have indicated information linking him to the 2012 Welikada Prison riot. Investigators have identified multiple assets allegedly connected to him, including five hotels on Colombo's Marine Drive, two houses and mobile phone shops in Boralesgamuwa, and properties across Europe and Dubai.

Financial investigations are underway, with a court ordering comprehensive examination of his bank accounts through the Central Bank's Financial Intelligence Unit. Police are also probing claims regarding his wealth and overseas properties. During his detention in Dubai, Basik claimed that UAE police found footage of Iranian missile and drone attacks on his mobile phone and questioned him about alleged Iran links. The investigation is being supervised by Senior DIG Ranmal Kodituwakku and SSP Kamal Ariyawansa.