Sunday 5 JULY 2020 Latest Edition Vol: 09/33 Price : Rs 60.00

Mihintale Chief Incumbent urges ‘Do not vote for Monks’ By Ruwantha Nithulgaspitiya

Chief Incumbent of the Mihintale Rajamaha Viharaya, Ven. Dr. Walahahengunawawe Dhammaratana Thera made a request to voters to refrain from voting for monks contesting the 5 August General Election. He expressed regret that none of the monks elected to Parliament thus far had presented a Bill in furtherance Easter attacks and Treasury Bonds scam of the Buddha Sasana, adding that all they had done was to enter Parliament to fulfil their lust for privileges and in turn live lives of luxury whilst enjoying personal privileges.

Story Continued on page 2 Four Political Port trade unionists call off fast By Nabiya Vaffoor and Eunice Ruth

The fast-unto-death campaign launched by trade unionists affiliated to the Ports Authority Bigwigs to (SLPA) demanding the unloading of three gantry cranes at the East Container Terminal (ECT) of the Colombo Port was called off, after a meeting was held with Prime Minister on 3 July. At the discussion held between the Premier and trade unionists, the former had approved the unloading of the three gantry cranes at the ECT and be Charged ordered to start operations as soon as possible. Story Continued on page 2 By W.K. Prasad Manju He charged that when a case had been filed Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna concerning last year’s Development of JCT and ECT (SLPP), Colombo District Easter Sunday Candidate Wijeyadasa carnage by the Rajapakshe, PC, said under a new previous United President appoints SLPP regime helmed by the National Front (UNF) incumbent President and the led regime, charges five-member Prime Minister, politicians had not been filed responsible for the Central Bank concerning four Treasury Bonds scam and former Ministers Committee politicians who had allegedly over the heinous President appointed a five- provided shelter to extremists crime. member Committee to examine and report on the behind the 21 April 2019 Easter Rajapakshe alleged that the concerns regarding the development of the Jaya Sunday terror attacks, will be four former Ministers of the Container Terminal (JCT) and East Container prosecuted. previous regime had also... Terminal (ECT) of the Colombo Port.

Story Continued on page 2 Story Continued on page 2 Treasury Bonds scam Major Police CID grills reshuffle Ranil 20 top Cops transferred By Kumudu Upul Shantha SSP Sujith Wedamulla to head PNB UNP Leader and former Prime Minister By Leon Berenger was questioned by the CID on 3 July, in connection with the At least 20 top Police Officers Central Bank Treasury Bonds were transferred out of their scam. respective divisions in a major The CID had visited reshuffle, days after the Police Wickremesinghe at his residence Narcotics Bureau (PNB) was rocked in Kollupitiya and recorded... with a corruption scandal after...

Story Continued on page 2 Story Continued on page 2 Match fixing probe abandoned SIU cites lack of evidence By W.K. Prasad Manju has been concluded, said the Head of The probe conducted by the the Unit, Chief Inspector of Police Special Investigation Unit (SIU) of Jagath Fonseka. He said officers the Ministry of Sports into match attached to the Unit had decided to fixing allegations linked to the 2011 complete the probe and submit a ICC World Cup Final, made by report to the Secretary to the former Minister of Sports Ministry of Sports shortly. Story Continued on page 2

Issuing copper to factory owned by suicide bomber Sirisena’s PR Director gave the order – Witness By Buddhika Samaraweera

The Industrial Development Board (IDB) had once been informed to issue 500 metric tonnes of copper to the factory owned by Cinnamon Grand Hotel suicide bomber, Mohamed Ibrahim Insaf Ahmed, located in the Wellampitiya area through a letter sent in June 2018... Story Continued on page 2 A2 sunday 5 july 2020 news

Jinthupitiya in Colombo BOC loan schemes to aid SMEs affected by COVID-19 13 in lockdown – BOC Chairman

The Bank of Ceylon (BOC) will addressed in this respect will be Seafarer tests positive for COVID-19 formulate loan schemes to aid that of discussing how Small and Medium-scale individuals who have obtained Enterprises (SMEs) affected by loans from other banks and By Dilanthi COVID-19, said BOC Chairman, have found difficulties in Jayamanne Attorney-at-Law Kanchana repaying, could solve such Ratwatte. difficulties and obtain a further Jinthupitiya in Colombo He said, while the Central loan from the BOC. 13 was closed off after a Bank of Sri Lanka has “As an entity registered under seafarer from Sri Lanka who formulated several concessions, the Central Bank, the BOC has had a history of having the BOC is also attempting to to comply with Central Bank travelled to tested support such businesses, regulations which state that if positive for COVID-19 adding that the Bank looks an individual has obtained a during his compulsory forward to implementing a loan from another Bank and home quarantine period. single digit interest rate for has had difficulties in Health sources said he another 14 days. Health sources said that Meanwhile, the loans. repayment, such individuals had undergone the Sources said that the over 150 persons including Government Medical “Money at the BOC is deposits should not be granted a further mandatory 14-day person however had been 10 persons who were his Officers’ Association of the public and it is our loan from any other bank, and quarantine period at a forced to use common family members had been stressed the urgent need for responsibility to ensure that this issue is what has to be quarantine centre and had sanitation facilities once he sent to the quarantine random community testing businesses benefit from these discussed and resolved,” he not tested positive for the reached home which was facility in Kandakadu. of high-risk groups such as loan schemes, develop their added.He made these polymerase chain reaction when he had been detected However, the Director these who already have been businesses and pay us a sum of statements while addressing a (PCR) test carried out on with COVID-19 during the General of Health Services, exposed to possible carriers money in return as interest,” he conference of small and him before he returned community testing carried Dr. Anil Jasinghe has said of the virus, and were added. medium enterprises in the home for the mandatory self out on high risk groups in that this was not a case of returning to the country Ratwatte noted that one of fisheries sector and tea industry quarantine at home for the particular area. community transmission. after travelling abroad. main issues that will be held in the Southern Province.

Continued from page 1 Four Political...... been involved in the Bonds SLPP Government is formed, they Parliamentary Select Committee that extremists behind the terror work efficiently, and that the scam, and asserted that the former will act swiftly to prosecute the four was formed by the previous regime attack. names of politicians of the previous Government had taken legal action ex-Ministers in question, regarding to probe the Easter Sunday mayhem He pointed out that as the UNF Government, who had against others but not against these the two previously mentioned had allegedly absolved blame that Presidential Commission of Inquiry allegedly provided political shelter four ex-Ministers. incidents. had fallen on those who had formed to probe the 2019 Easter to the extremists behind the He stressed that once the new He further charged that the provided political shelter to Sunday blasts, is continuing their attack, would be revealed shortly.

Major Police... Match fixing... CID grills... Fonseka said as part of the probe they had recorded three ...16 personnel were pool, Weerasinghe said. half a dozen and a dozen statements from three former players, but noted that they ...the statement, Police Media arrested for alleged He said that all the or even more and from had been insufficient to verify the 14 points that had been Spokesman, SSP Jaliya Senaratne connections to local drug transfers were approved various ranks. raised in the statement given to them by Aluthgamage, thus confirmed. lords, a topmost official both by the NPC and the This is being done forcing them to abandon the inquiry. This was following Attorney said on 3 July. Election Commission purely as a precautionary He added though it had been mentioned that letters had General Dappula de Livera, PC, on Three Deputy Inspectors following a directive from measure to prevent a been sent to the ICC in this regard, the sport’s world ruling 18 June instructing the Acting General of Police (DIGs), the Defence authorities. conflict of interest since body had to date not responded to those letters. Inspector General of Police to record nine Acting DIGs, six He added that Acting the Police have been Fonseka noted that the three ex-players who had provided statements over the said incident Senior Superintendents of DIG G.K.J. Aponsu has called upon to investigate statements to them had given them clear reasons as to why from former President Maithripala Police (SSPs) and two been transferred from the the Police,” Weerasinghe certain players had been changed before the commencement Sirisena, Wickremesinghe, former Assistant Superintendents Police Headquarters to explained. of the ICC World Cup Final, nine years ago. Advisor to Wickremesinghe, S. of Police (ASPs) were Head the PNB while SSP A total of 16 PNB He opined that hence there was no purpose in further Paskaralingam and a former Bank placed on the transfer list, Sujith Wedamulla has officers who were arrested prolonging the probe into Aluthgamage’s allegation. official. Secretary of the National been appointed as the earlier this week since the Police Commission (NPC), Director of the PNB with scam broke out have Nishantha Weerasinghe immediate effect. already been charged said. In addition to that, with trading in narcotics. Earlier, the Head of the several more personnel They are currently being PNB, DIG Sajeewa attached to the PNB are held under detention President appoints... Medawatte and PNB set to be transferred out orders for further Director, SSP Manjula as the Criminal questioning. The Committee is headed by days from 3 July, the prior to the building of the Senarath was also moved Investigation Department Police Headquarters has Secretary to the Ministry of President’s Media Division said Terminal; agreements entered out following the alleged (CID) intensifies its probe assigned three special Ports and Shipping, M.M.P.K. in a Media release. by the Government with other narcotic scam in the PNB. into the alleged narcotic teams from the CID to Mayadunne. The Committee is required to Governments with regard to the DIG Medawatte was scam, he further said. probe the alleged racket, Secretary to the Ministry of look into the following the Colombo Port and in particular transferred to the Police “The numbers set to be which is the single largest Industrial Export and procurement procedure and the ECT; financial implications Welfare Division while SSP transferred out from the ever to rock the PNB in its Investment Promotion, related concerns with regard to and cost – benefit analysis of Senarath was sent to the PNB could be between operational history. M.P.D.U.K. Mapa Pathirana, the development of JCT (V); ad-hoc decisions taken by the Secretary to the Ministry of assessment of compliance to SLPA, the line Ministry and the Roads and Highways, R.W.R. the Cabinet decision and the Government with regard to the Pemasiri, Secretary to the observation of the Minister of above matters; identify those Ministry of Power and Energy, Finance connected with the who are responsible for the Wasantha Perera and Cabinet decision dated 26 July above matters and recommend Chairman of the Sri Lanka 2017 on enhancing the deep actions against them; and ‘Do not vote... Ports Authority (SLPA), General berth capacity and the recommend the way forward to (Retired) R.M. Daya modernisation of JCT; examine develop the above mentioned He emphasised that such though the Chief Prelates of time when President Rathnayake are the other as to why the JCT (V) was not two Terminals to get the monks who put forward the the three Sects had made a Gotabaya Rajapaksa who is members of the Committee. developed prior to the ordering maximum benefits for Sri Arahat symbol but sully the special request from all doing a great service to the The Committee is requested of the required machinery; Lanka for development in saffron robe and the political party leaders to growth and progress of the to consult the relevant line examine the cost implication of trade, shipping and both in Buddha Sasana should not refrain from giving Buddha Sasana and was Ministries, stakeholders and the unsolicited procurement domestic and foreign be allowed to do so. He nominations to monks and meeting the monks of the submit their report within 45 actions and shipment of them investments. noted that the responsibility appointing them to the party three Sects on a monthly of the monk is to advice national lists, a group of basis to discuss issues and rulers based on the meaning monks had formed separate provide expeditious and of Dhamma and not to get parties and were going on suitable solutions to all involved with governance an arbitrary journey, such problems, monks and enter Parliament and thereby unheeding even the attempting to unnecessarily Sirisena’s PR... enjoy luxury. The educated request of the involve themselves with and intelligent voter should Mahanayakes. This should politics would result in a ...by former President former Chairman of the IDB, having asked the IDB to supply understand this at the be vehemently condemned, great dishonour to the ’s Public Mahinda Jinasena had the said factory with 500 metric upcoming Poll, he added. he pointed out. Buddhist flag and the Relations Director, Shantha instructed to issue a large tonnes of copper. He also observed that even He elaborated that at a Buddha Sasana. Bandara, said former Secretary quantity of scrap metal to Insaf The Commission also to the Ministry of Industry and Ahmed’s factory, he added. inquired as to whether it had Commerce, K.D. Ranjith Asoka. Responding to a question by been revealed at some point He also said on another members of the Commission as that the scrap metal purchased occasion, at the time Senior to whether the then Minister of by Insaf Ahmed’s factory from Assistant Secretary to the Industry and Commerce Rishad the IDB had been exported to Port trade... Ministry of Defence, Devika Bathiudeen has had some foreign countries. In reply, the Previously, the protesters demand is pending. journalist, Sumanaratne Liyanage had also informed the connection with Insaf Ahmed, witness said that they had had demanded that these Addressing the protesters, noted that they have faith IDB to issue 1,000 kilos of Asoka said that although one of exported scrap metal and had three cranes that were the Secretary of the Ports, that the present brass to the said factory. Insaf Ahmed’s accountants thereby generated foreign imported from China be Commerce, Industries and Government will respond Asoka said this on 3 July while visited the Ministry frequently, exchange. unloaded at the ECT and Progressive Workers Union, positively to their pending testifying before the he did not know whether there The Commission then that the SLPA commence Shamal Sumanaratne demand upon the Presidential Commission of was any connection between questioned whether Asoka was work without further delays claimed that if the nation conclusion of the 5 August Inquiry appointed to probe the Bathiudeen and Insaf Ahmed. aware of the fact that Insaf by paying demurrage to the has to suffer a major loss Parliamentary Poll. bombings on 21 April 2019 However, he added that he Ahmed had used that money agent that imported those due to this trade union “Handing over the overall Easter Sunday. later saw in a newspaper that for extremist activities, to cranes. action, the responsibility of control of the ECT to the The witness said that in Insaf Ahmed was awarded the which the witness said that he However, the main it should be borne by former SLPA is not a task that can 2019, a three-member best entrepreneur of the Year. knows about only now. demand of the 23 trade Parliamentarians Arjuna be fulfilled overnight. The committee was appointed to Recalling that Insaf Ahmed’s He also said that Insaf union leaders who went Ranatunga, Sagala present Government will look into the issuance of scrap factory had applied to the IDB Ahmed’s factory had the ahead with the fast unto Ratnayaka and Mahinda fulfil our demand as soon as metal to Insaf Ahmed’s factory on several occasions for opportunity to export the death was based on vesting Samarasinghe, and all SLPA they get the power in the by the IDB. purchasing scrap metal at relevant material through a the overall control of the officials who supported their Parliament after the The report of that committee concessionary prices, Asoka Cabinet paper signed by then ECT with the SLPA and a decisions. Fielding a Election,” said was received on 6 May 2019 added that he noticed a few Ministers Bathiudeen and solution to this particular question raised by a Sumanaratne. and according to its findings, special cases such as Bandara Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena. news sunday 5 july 2020 A3

Decision to withdraw Circular 5/2001 Bimal urges President to protect forest lands Former JVP MP Bimal forest lands. that there has never Rathnayake, in a letter to Rathnayake has been any necessity President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, alleged that to transfer these has said the decision taken by transferring powers forest lands to the Cabinet to withdraw or vested with the DFC District and amend Circular 5/2001 that to Divisional and Divisional protects certain forest lands, District Secretaries Secretaries. He has and transferring them under will have an adverse suspected that there the purview of Divisional and impact on the bio- could be more to it District Secretaries, will lead to diversity as well as on than meets the eye irreparable damage of the animals. over this decision. environment. He has warned that Hence, Circular 5/2001 protects any this decision could considering the State forest land that is not also prompt the harmful and officially recognised as a Divisional and negative impact that Protected Area under a Gazette, District Secretaries to allow for is bound to be felt by the people and accordingly brings the clearing of the forest cover and animals alike, Rathnayake 500,000 hectares of Other and allow individuals and firms has urged the President to State Forests under the to carry out various private intervene and prevent the protection of the Department of projects such as putting up of transfer of forest lands from Forest Conservation (DFC), housing complexes and DFC to District and Divisional preventing the misuse of these factories. He also pointed out Secretaries.

Body of Cop Nagabooshani grabbed by chariot festival held The chariot festival of the generally arrive in their croc found Nagabooshani Amman thousands to take part in The Policeman who was grabbed Temple of Nagadeepa islet the festival. by a crocodile at the Nilwala River in was held on 3 July Meanwhile, Temple Matara on 30 June night was found adhering to health priests and volunteers also dead some 200 metres away from the guidelines. wore face masks made location of the incident, on 3 July Navy vessels patrolled compulsory by Public morning, Police said. the sea areas around the Health Inspectors who Area residents who had been islet to prevent any vessels were present at the Temple scouring the waters in search of the carrying pilgrims from the premises. The free food missing Policeman over the past two mainland to the distribution at the Temple days found the body. The body was festival. premises to pilgrims stuck in the mud close to the It was for the first time organised by Hindu charity Nadugala Pumping Station. The that the festival was held organisations was also 54-year-old victim, a father of four sans pilgrims from the cancelled. was serving at the Slave Island Police Jaffna mainland who (PA) Station at the time of his death. (LB) A4 sunday 5 july 2020 focus

Islandwide Special Ops on President’s Orders to Fight Underworld – Western Province SDIG Deshabandu Tennakoon Intelligence net around organised Special Operation to nab Bogus bank with underworld crime gangs and drug mafia warlords and kingpins links found in Werahera Separate Unit to probe money Hotline set up for crime circulation of racketeers -related tips – 011-2500471

Uninterrupted Police investigations a suspect who had been nabbed by the received much information regarding officers from the PNB being allegedly The Police Media spokesperson, would be conducted on advice from Mirihana Special Inspection Unit who this as well. involved with big-time illegal drug responding to a query of a journalist as Defence Secretary Kamal Gunaratna had maintained a bank account where traffickers. Some 15 such officers have to the plan of a suspect to travel abroad, and Acting IGP Chandana D. money had been found to the tune of Intimidate been taken into custody in this stated that all those involved in the Wickremaratna to bust all forms of Rs 490 million. We intend to take legal These people had used subtle connection. There are also three civilians racket have been identified and travel crimes, illegal drug peddling and similar action against this suspect based on methods to send illegal drugs to prisons. involved as well. restrictions have been imposed on them. illegal activities throughout the country provisions contained in Sections of the Also advice has been given to OICs and “During the first stage of the He added that except for one suspect, following an order issued to this effect to Prevention of Money Laundering Act HQIs at regional level to nab criminals investigation we found that a few officers all PNB officer involved in the racket has the law enforcement authorities by with CID officers engaged in this task. who intimidate the public with the use of have worked with drug dealers to been recognized and transfers have been President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, SDIG of Further investigations are also being knives, swords etc. In the past week transport illegal drugs. They have helped made to the PNB Director and the the Western Province Deshabandu conducted into another suspect alone some 82 suspects have been transport 130 kg of heroin. Seventy Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Tennakoon said. nabbed from Minuwangoda who had apprehended in this regard. Henceforth kilograms of this has been taken into upon the approval of the National Police He stated that these operations to maintained Rs 120 million in his bank we will not allow any person to custody in Minuwangoda recently. Commission and the Independent combat these illegal activities would be account. intimidate or issue threats to the people Further investigations into the matter Election Commission and has been launched nationwide with the Meanwhile, another suspect had regarding land and family issues. are still being conducted. carried out according a set procedure. coordination of OICs and HQIs, the been nabbed from Dehiwala on 25 Furthermore details have also been Furthermore, the Police have seized He added that the investigation process Special Units set up to tackle all forms of June having 1.28 kg of narcotic drugs collected regarding groups that tend to 243kg of heroin transported through sea could be hindered if they remained in crime as well as the STF. in his possession and also cash demand ransom money from the public routes. Another, 43kgs of that stock has the said positions. Tennakoon said that intelligence amounting to Rs 235,000. Probes and they too will be dealt with according been sold while 200kg has been kept in He added that investigations into if reports received by Police Stations conducted had revealed that this to the law. Another programme that will Police custody. There is information that these officers have carried out their countrywide will be perused by the three suspect was in cahoot with another be launched is to bring down gangsters several officers of the Police Narcotic responsibilities accordingly together categories before launching operations gangster known as Mervin Jana and who are based overseas who tend to Bureau (PNB) were involved in the with disciplinary inquiries will also be to bust such activities effectively. had deposited Rs 140 million between operate criminal activities through their racket. It was also revealed that five initiated and necessary actions will also He made these revelations during a 15 July 2019 and 20 June 2020 to an local associates here. These suspects pistols have been transported with the be taken he added. Media briefing convened at Police account operating under the name of a will also be rounded up shortly and they drugs. One pistol has been found by the Meanwhile, 8kg out of 500kg of ICE Headquarters last Friday (3). He was 65-year-old man in Jana’s house. too will be prosecuted after their arrests. CID as of now. seized by the PNB, had been sold back flanked by STF Commandant DIG Further sums of Rs 1.9 million had The aim of the President is to usher in a The police have requested a seven-day after changing its combination. Four Varuna Jayasundara and Police Media been transferred from that account to society that is devoid of these detention order on 11 Police officers who Police officers and one civilian were Spokesman SSP Jaliya Senaratna. another account on the same day we undesirable elements and towards this have been arrested after they have been arrested in connection with this. They Speaking further SDIG of the Western arrested him. Police took measures to end the Defence Secretary and the produced before courts. The individual are detained at the moment under the Province said; “Illegal activities of suspend all these bank accounts. Acting IGP are also supporting these who transported these drugs while provisions of Prevention of Terrorism Act organised crime gangs and illegal drug The probes conducted so far have measures. The results of this exercise having firearms in his possession has (PTA) and Poisons, Opium and traffickers had taken place over time. revealed that from the monies deposited will be there for the people to see in the also been detained and interrogated Dangerous Drugs Ordinance for further After these illegal activities began to rise into these bank accounts luxury houses, coming months. under the Prevention of Terrorism Act. questioning. in an unprecedented manner in the vehicles and properties have been Commandant of the STF DIG Varuna Three main rules have also been Apart from them, 12 persons who recent past, the President issued an purchased by these suspects from Jayasundara explained how the STF, established to investigate into those who have connections with these drug order to law enforcement officers to various areas in the country. based on instructions received from the have supported the PNB officers involved rackets were arrested. Eleven of them create an environment for people to live Illegal bank accounts President, Defence Secretary and the in drug trafficking. Accoridingly the were Police officers while the other one free of such activities. Later the Defence Acting IGP had managed to arrest scores investigation will include looking into allegedly transports drugs on sea Secretary also intervened and gave us Another individual was arrested from of suspects engaged in illegal acts of the possibility of the involvement of routes.” instructions to formulate a programme the Werahera area who is a retired bank drug peddling and contract killings, in those who was formerly involved in the to rid society of this menace. staffer. He operates an institute that the past three weeks. murder of a PNB officer and the assault Protect identity The acting IGP also gave us functions like a commercial bank where Some 20 Organized Criminal Gangs of another officer and will be carried out Meanwhile, he said careful measures instructions to draw up a prompt plan to he acts like the custodian of the monies have been busted. Several big-time drug in accordance to the provisions of the have been taken to protect the identity of get rid of these undesirable elements of these drug lords and dealers and then peddlers such as Manna Ramesh, Gaiya Prevention of Terrorism (Terrorism the source of information and therefore, from society. As a result daily transfer the funds to relevant accounts and Dematagoda Chaminda, have been Provisions) Act. there is no no need to feel intimidated operations conducted by the SIS and the of the drug peddlers. It has also come to among the suspects. The seized drugs will be dealt with when providing information to Security Western Province Intelligence Unit have light that monies had been transferred under the provisions of the Poisons, Forces or Police on crimes and been further streamlined as per advice by these suspects to at least 10 bank Largest weapons haul Opium, and dangerous drugs racketeering taking place anywhere in from the Acting IGP. Henceforth a accounts. Further investigations are During these operations against the Ordinance. the country. coordinated programme will be being continued regarding the bank underworld, we were able to get hold of The investigations into the change in “You should not be afraid to provide launched countrywide by OICs and accounts operated by each of these the largest weapons haul of the criminal composition and sale of 500 Kg and 8 g information. We stand to protect you. HQIs, the Special Units set up to combat suspects. The monies accrued by these gang recently. This armoury belonged to of Ice will be carried out in accordance to 95% of our successful raids are based crime as well as the STF to rid society of criminals through peddling of illegal ‘Kosgoda Tharaka’ and consisted of 12 the provisions of the Intellectual on information you provide. There have those engaged in crime, illegal drug drugs had been used by them to wallow T-56 weapons and one T-81 weapon. Property Act. been a few isolated incidents. We have smuggling and other crimes. Thanks to in riches and another lucrative business We intend to further streamline these The Criminal Investigation also resolved the prejudice of this new exercise the Police in the past for them had been contract killings. operations in this regard in the coming Department (CID) has handed over a informants, although they were exposed. few weeks had been able to take into We also intend to set up a Special Unit weeks and there will be no room left for sum of Rs 32.393 million that has been Any information could be given directly custody many criminals, drug dealers as to probe how these organised gangs these suspects to roam the streets obtained by the circulation and sale of to the STF Commandant by contacting well as large stocks of illegal drugs from operate and how they use their monies henceforth under our watch. I request these drugs to the Police. 0718592640 telephone number or SDIG various areas. Through these daily to accomplish their sinister aims. As per the public to furnish any information The Police has also seized and Western Province on 0718591017. We operations we intend to apprehend big- provisions contained in Sections of the regarding such criminal gangs or the detained two vans, a car and a cab that have also come up with a plan to reward time drug dealers. But, there is a school Prevention of Money Laundering Act, we acts of peddling illegal drugs to has been used for the illegal activities. A cash prizes to the public for successful of thought that Police were only going intend to confiscate all monies accrued telephone number 011-2500471. T56 Firearm and ammunition and pistol information provided,” he said after small-time drug peddlers and were by these suspects along with the have also been seized. Four teams have They also emphasised that maximum afraid to round up big-time peddlers. properties that they had acquired. These Special probe been established upon the instruction of action will be taken against corrupt In the future, you will see many big- suspects had also conducted these Police Media Spokesman SSP Jaliya CID director and the supervision of the officials to restore lost faith in the Sri time peddlers also falling into the Police lucrative trades with the support of Senaratna said already the CID has CID Deputy Inspector General for Lanka Police. net. Already details had emerged about inmates of Prisons and online. We have begun a special probe into certain further investigations. (GW) NEWS SUNDAY 5 JULY 2020 A5 Easter Attacks IDB provided scrap metal to Insaf’s factory – Deputy Director By Buddhika Samaraweera the Scrap Metal Management Unit, metal could be issued on the basis of purchase the scrap metal from IDB to act as he wished, despite there which was set up according to a the annual turnover of the according to the proper procedure. being a set of guidelines approved by Deputy Director of the Industrial Cabinet decision taken on 22 July industrialists. They are small-scale Members of the Commission the Cabinet, he admitted that he Development Board (IDB), Palitha 2005, since 2017. entrepreneurs (with an annual questioned Dickwella regarding this should have not done so. Dickwella, admitted that he had He said that through this Unit, a turnover of less than Rs 10 million), and he said that he was not When queried whether any officer issued scrap metal to the factory programme was launched to sell small-scale enterprises (with an concerned about the turnover of the had advised him to do so, Dickwella located in Wellampitiya, which was scrap metal to industrialists under annual turnover between Rs 10-200 factory. The category to which the said that the Director General of the owned by Cinnamon Grand Hotel three categories. He also said that in million) and medium-scale particular industrialist belonged to IDB, P.L.U. Ratnamalala and its suicide bomber Insaf Ahmed, in November 2013, a set of guidelines enterprises (with annual turnover was decided based on the former Chairman, Mahinda violation of the proper procedure. on the management of scrap metal between Rs 200-600 million). Since recommendation of the officer of the Jinasena, on certain occasions had He was testifying before the was introduced. this factory’s annual turnover IDB who visits the factory and the given instructions on the amount of Presidential Commission of Inquiry Director of the IDB, Sarath exceeded Rs 600 million, Udayasiri number of employees of the relevant scrap metal to be issued to the probing the bombings on 21 April Udayasiri, who testified before the said that it belongs to the large-scale factory, he added. factory. He also presented some 2019 Easter Sunday, on 2 July. Commission recently, said that there enterprises category and that When the Commission questioned documents with regard to those He has been serving as the Head of were three categories to whom scrap therefore it was not eligible to whether it was inappropriate for him instructions to the Commission.

Face masks protect others – Dr. Aluthge

By Dilanthi Jayamanne

The public should be aware that the face mask is worn to protect others from COVID-19 more than themselves, Executive Committee Member of the Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA), Dr. Haritha Aluthge said. He added the public should be encouraged to wear the face mask while in public places to ensure that COVID-19 does not spread, if even one amongst them was infected. The recommended face mask is the surgical face mask. However, those who are among high-risk groups – especially those who have direct contact with COVID-19 patients, have been instructed to wear N95 and KN95 masks. “Now however, there are masks being made at home as well. Although these do not provide much protection, it is best that at least they wear them while moving around in public places. There is no necessity for a person to wear a mask while being alone or travelling in their own vehicle, unless the vehicle is stopped by the Traffic Police and he or she has to lower the shutter and talk to the Policeman outside,” Dr. Aluthge said. He said the National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA) had been tasked with monitoring the standard and quality of face masks available to the public. Meanwhile, the Office of the Senior DIG (Western Province) stated that over 2,879 persons had been ordered to self-quarantine from 28 June 2020 for failing to wear a mask while moving around in public places.

Possession of unlicenced elephant calf Further hearing fixed for 9 July

By Hansi Nanayakkara

Colombo High Court Judge Gihan Kulathunga on 3 July fixed further hearing of the case filed against interdicted Colombo Additional Magistrate Thilina Gamage and three others, on charges of the possession of an unlicensed elephant calf, to 9 July. As per an order issued by the Court previously, the Officer-In- Charge of the Special Investigation Unit of the CID submitted a medical report to Judge Kulathunga on 3 July, to state that the first accused in the case, the elephant calf’s first owner Chndraratna Bandara Yatawara was presently indisposed and hospitalised. The first accused in the trial, for a second time running failed to appear in Court, claiming that he is indisposed and on his behalf his bail guarantor was present in Court. The rest of the three accused were present in Court and further hearing of the trial was postponed to the said date. The Attorney General named Yatawara, Gamage, former Assistant Director of the Wildlife Conservation Department Upali Padmasiri and a former Clerk of the same Department Priyanka Sanjeewani as the four accused in the case. The AG has indicted the aforesaid four accused on 25 counts at the CHC and on charges of aiding and abetting in the illegal possession and racketeering of an unlicenced elephant calf from 6 November 2008 up to 18 May 2015. A6 sunday 5 JULY 2020 Interviews SJB will secure SLPP will get 113 seats – Madduma Bandara 2/3rds mandate General Secretary of (SJB) Ranjith Madduma – Kariyawaswam Bandara who has completed 39 years in politics will be appointed as a national General Secretary of Sri Lanka Podujana list MP when the General Election is Peramuna (SLPP), , a lawyer over. He says that SJB will secure 113 by profession says that the Government is seeking seats at the upcoming poll and that his the 2/3rds mandate from the people and were Party is clean sans thieves and corrupt confident about it. members. Son of former Benthara politician, Albert Kariyawasam, from Elipitiya said that when it By Sulochana Ramiah Mohan comes to the economy, with all the obstacles, the Government has been successful in assisting the It’s six months of Sri Lanka economy and entrepreneurs. With the power of Parliament, this Government will certainly exceed Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) rule the expectations of the people, he says. since their candidate became the President. How has the By Sulochana Ramiah Mohan Government performed so far? It’s been six months of Sri Lanka A: Unsatisfactory and no attempt has been made to fulfil the promises they Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) rule with made to the people. The cost of living has your candidate becoming the President. doubled and the increase in pensions and Can you tell how the Government has salaries as promised has not progressed. been performing so far? To farmers the Government said it will have an overwhelming victory. Both leaders of UNP give free fertiliser but now the situation is A: President Gotabaya Rajapaksa assumed office on and SJB have failed to deliver and failed as that there is no free fertiliser and it can’t 18 November 2019 and compelled to work with a politicians. However, I personally think that it is even be bought. People have poor incomes minority Government as a result of short- sighted better for the democratic process to get the two groups and on top of that, they have been amendments in the 19th Amendment. Thus together and come forward as the UNP without replacing top slots with their friends who Parliament did not support to fully implement the aligning with extremist political groups who are are retired military personnel and doing programme he promised to the people. We all know responsible for the Easter Sunday attacks and in away with SLA workers, Ministry how the Opposition even attempted to defeat the favour of separatism. Secretaries and other State planning proposal to pay suppliers who supplied the officers leading to a militarised Government on credit during the last regime. The The Government is witch-hunting their government. President had to dissolve Parliament and just after opponents - Yahapalana politicians, the nominations, the country was in lockdown due to the SJB and the UNP have been saying. How What are the key messages COVID-19 pandemic. will you react to this? the Samagi Jana Balawegaya Any chances of making the UNP With all these obstacles, the Government has (SJB) will give the people, while an alliance of the SJB after the performed excellently during the last six months in A: We saw witch-hunting during the time of the gearing to face the Election? poll, in case of needing more areas where the Government had control. We know so-called good governance government. Rajapaksa seats to form a Government? how the Government handled the COVID-19 family members were arrested without any inquiry or A: People have accused all politicians as pandemic - controlled the spread within the evidence and kept in remand prison for a long period being corrupt and all those who enter A: We have not discussed about it and community and minimise deaths. I think this is the without any charges being framed. Parliament as also being corrupt and as we are not even intending to do so at the first challenge the Government faced and has was a direct victim of Yahapalana witch-hunting. thieves. We want to reiterate that it would moment. In our coalition we aim for 113 performed far better than most developed countries. Even close associate were remanded just on be corrupt free and no thieves will be seats. As a Party we will see how the Poll Secondly, when the President took over the country ‘B-reports’, without an inquiry. We all heard how entertained. We are following new policies ends to talk on the next step. we had a serious threat to national security and witch-hunting was carried out at the Prime Minister’s in the new party and there is no room for serious concerns about the underworld and the drug office by a committee comprising the former Premier, corruption. A corrupt-free SJB would The SLPP (or the Government) menace. , Anura Kumara Dissanayake and enter Parliament. is witch-hunting on Patali . Former Solicitor General their opponents - the What are the key messages placed by Suhada Gamlath revealed how he was forced to arrest Isn’t there anyone in your Yahapalana politicians, the the SLPP to the people while facing the Rajapaksa family members and their close associates party with allegations against UNP (SJB as well) have been General Election? by the said committee. Former head of the FCID also corruption? saying. How will you react to A: Our main concerns are economic development revealed the position. After this Government assumed A: None! and national security. We are committed to bring the office, no one has been arrested or remanded without this? development of this country to new heights and also a proper inquiry. The culprits of the last government Do you predict victory for the A: They have said we (under UNP) have provide a secure country for people to live without are at large and the government has allowed the law SJB at the Election? politically victimised the SLPP and SLFP fear. The SLPP has already prepared the road map to enforcement authorities to carry out its functions. A: We are going to do well and will but what we must understand is that the achieve our targets. During the last three years as an emerge with 113 seats. We are still former President was a SLFPer and half opposition party we were more concerned about There is a question over corrupt assessing how the poll would turn out to the Cabinet was also SLFP members. So future governance rather than slinging mud at the politicians being still in the SLPP. Do be but this is what we have guessed. where is the political victimisation? In fact governing party. We appointed several committees you see that? some of those who are with us are comprising veterans and learned people in the A: This allegation was made even earlier. The While the SJB split from the victimised too. We will find a solution to relevant areas and prepared a comprehensive plan for Opposition is only making baseless allegations on UNP and SLPP joining the SLFP, that once we win the Election. the future of the country which was placed before the SLPP members. The public gave them power to take how do you see the SLPP/SLFP people, titled ‘Vistas of Prosperity’ during the last steps against corrupt politicians and they were unable jointly working to be in power Will the Government be able presidential election and the majority voted for that. to even bring any charges against these so-called to gain 2/3rds majority in the corrupt politicians. Two cases were filed against after the General Election? Do How would you predict the victory for you think the SLFP will secure Parliament to be entrusted with and Gamini Senerath, and more power than now? SLPP at the upcoming Election? Courts acquitted both. more seats too? A: In very simple words, my assessment is that we A: This time there are more floating A: There is no government that had a will win with a two-thirds majority in Parliament. The Government has been praised over votes. We cannot predict which way these 2/3rds majority. Even after winning the People need a genuine change and we have promised the presidential inquiry into Easter votes would go. The last time, there were war, the then government could not that. A majority of the people are determined to give Sunday attacks at a time the Muslims around 2.8M floating votes. This time achieve it. So getting this kind of majority that power to us since they have placed their trust think that they have been victimised by with State officials and civil society being is not going to happen and we, as the and confidence in the President and Prime Minister. the former Government and the current perturbed over Government decisions, SJB,will take a majority of the seats, that Government as well. How will you rectify they could decide otherwise. We think can be predicted! While the SJB split from the UNP and 80% of the floating vote will be for the SLPP joining the SLFP, how do you see this image of Muslims being targeted? SJB. ’s statement the SLPP/SLFP jointly working to be in A: Allegations are not against the entire Muslim that he and his combatants had power after the Election? Do you think community but on several so-called Muslim leaders. Has the Election Commission killed around 3,000 soldiers the SLFP will secure more seats too? The duty is upon the Muslim community to come given a fair share of space had stirred a hornets nest. It’s forward and show the world that they are not with for all parties to hold the UNP that got him across to A: It is simple logic that when you stand together these so called leaders who support extremism. We as campaign rallies with the the Government side with his you will have much more strength and when you split a party always respect equal rights of all communities pandemic? Do you think the militants. What is the use now you are going to lose your strength. Joining of SLFP living in our motherland. campaigns for the Election are has given us more strength both physically and bashing the SLPP using Karuna mentally. On the other hand, the UNP and SJB split Karuna Amman’s statement that he and satisfactory and has reached at the poll campaigns? has also given us more strength. Most of those who his combatants had killed around 3000 all the people of this country? A: We had only sent Karuna to Bangkok joined in the belief he would give soldiers has stirred a hornets nest. Is the Also, is it right to say that all and ‘rehabilitated’ him before he crossed leadership, now realise that Premadasa is incapable SLPP doing damage control over such candidates have reached out to over and we did not make him a politician of giving any leadership and his words were empty statements? the people in their electorates getting him into Parliament as a national rhetoric with no substance. Some of the SJB and made their candidates list MP. They made him the SLFP Vice candidates have even decided to quit the candidacy A: As our Party has clearly stated over and over known? Chairman and we did not do all that. He and the traditional UNP supporters are in utter again, we have no responsibility over statement made has to clarify his statement. disappointment with both leaderships and are now by Karuna. Even though Karuna supported us at the A: We are not happy with the gathering around the SLPP. Presidential Election, presently he is contesting restrictions. During the restrictions due Under the Yahapalana against the SLPP from a different party. On certain to the pandemic, we did not have Government, why did you not Has the Election Commission given a policy issues our party did not give nominations to meetings and campaign rallies. try him at the Courts? fair share of space for all parties to hold Karuna Amman. However, we condemn the statement Candidates’ poll numbers have not A: At that time it was the Yahapalana campaign rallies under the pandemic? made by him and we insist that the Law should be reached the public due to a lack of Government and If we come to power, we Do you think campaigns are satisfactory enforced against him. contact, meetings and distributions. They will take him to Courts over his claims and has reached all the people? have no money to spend on televisions and killings he committed during the war. Will the Government get a 2/3rds and radio and for print media advertising. We will take action. A: The present situation is unhealthy, especially for majority in Parliament to be entrusted They are the ones who are struggling. The newcomers. The Election Commission should have with more power than now? Election Commission had told Police to Your take on abolishing the thought about the situation before taking decisions. A: Yes, we are seeking that mandate from the people implement all the laws and regulations 19A which the Government Unfortunately, the EC has not given a thought to the and we are confident that we will get a 2/3rds power. but many Police officers have been thinks is the reason behind existing situation and conducting an election People have now realised the importance of changing transferred out and new appointments the political instability in the campaign under the present situation with the the Constitution of this country and they know that suiting the government have been made. country. What do you have to COVID-19 threat. Under the present situation, it may this is the last chance to save our motherland from They are appointed for election duty say? not be possible to have large public rallies. Therefore, the crutches of extremism and separatism. which we see as unfair. Also, 90% of the the maximum opportunity should have been given to The Yahapalana Government ruined the electronic media including State A: The 19A is a must for democracy as it candidates to make their preference number known Constitution with their short-sighted and narrow- televisions are projecting government gives power to Parliament and the to voters. With these restrictions, the enthusiasm of minded amendments in the Constitution. The 19th propagandas and hardly on other political President of this country will have only voters will decrease, which will in turn result in a Amendment has created history where the Police force parties. the Ministry of Defence under him. This lower voter turnout. We suspect that there is a hidden is run by an acting IGP while the IGP is in prison. There power will not permit the military to take agenda to reduce the voter turnout in the upcoming is no provision to remove the IGP who has been What are your thoughts about charge of Government entities. Now what Election, where interested parties can undermine the charged by a criminal Court. The EC has been the (UNP) we see is ‘Doctors doing the engineers obvious victory of the SLPP. established to conduct Elections and members of the that is facing the polls? job’ . Power is vested in civilians and we Commission go to Court to prevent holding Elections. A: The UNP is not a challenge at all. cannot fit military personnel to that kind What are your thoughts about the UNP - The administration of this country has reached chaotic They have 16 members with them and we of job under a democracy. The 19A will SJB split? levels. For any government to rule for the betterment of have 80 of them joining us. They might remain and people’s power is with A: Well, that is their internal problem. Whether they the people, this Constitution has to be changed. secure some five seats I presume. Parliament and that would be upheld. come as one team or as two teams we are going to ([email protected]) FOCUS SUNDAY 5 JULY 2020 A7 Half a Million Hectares of Forest in Danger Decision to amend Circular leaves forest land wide open to exploitation

By Ranmini Gunasekara Environment a few days ago, and he said that this circular will be Any State forest land that is not amended. He further said that this officially recognised as a Protected Area needs to be amended so, the poor under a Gazette is designated under the farmers will get land. They are bluffing terms ‘Other State Forests’. In the past, to the public. If there is such a need, these Other State Forests came under Circular 2/2006 provides provisions the purview of District or Divisional for it.” Secretariats and Government agents, He further expressed his concern on who misused these areas or gave it to the Government’s contradictory claims various entities at their own discretion. of increasing Sri Lanka’s forest cover However, to prevent this, Circular to 30 per cent. 5/2001 was issued, effectively bringing “In President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s 500,000 hectares of Other State Forests ‘Vision for Prosperity’ it states that he under the protection of the Department will increase our forest cover to 30 per of Forest Conservation (DFC), cent. He started his campaign by preventing the misuse of these forest planting trees. We felt happy as lands. Unfortunately, after 19 years of Buddhist Monks. But we can’t protection, these forests are once more reconcile with the fact that he up for grabs with the current advocates for planting trees, while on Government’s efforts to withdraw or the other hand, the Government is amend Circular 5/2001. Pahiyangala Ananda Sagara trying to destroy half a million In a press conference organised by the Thera Rukshan Jayawardene Hemantha Withanage Iraki Kodithuwakku hectares of forest. We request the Centre for Environmental Justice (CEJ) President to not allow the Government on 2 July, many environmentalists and an Environmental Report and with the “This is a thousand times worse than He further stressed that there is to withdraw this circular.” activists alike gathered to express their permission of an inter-governmental what they did to Wilpattu. Everyone in plenty of land demarcated for On 02 July, Cabinet Spokesperson, concern over this destructive move by committee composed of representatives this country needs to breathe, and agriculture that is underutilised in Sri Minister Bandula Gunawardena the Government. of different ministries, the necessary politicians and governments that come Lanka. announced a Cabinet proposal to land area can be released for the to power once every five years have no “Almost 33 per cent of land in this transfer lands considered ‘residual Fragmented forests project. This circular actually provides right to deny us that. Even the country is actually reserved for forests’ back to District and Divisional Conservationist Rukshan provisions for this, so, there is no need opposition is keeping their mouth shut agriculture; however, only 12 per cent of Secretariats. This transfer of rights Jayewardene, attending the event, to withdraw circular 5/2001.” in this regard because they too have it is actually being used effectively. would ultimately lead to the spoke of the strategic importance of the Withanage also claimed, the objective stakes in this decision. Certain There’s so much left. But what are they withdrawal or amendment of Circular Other State Forests. of withdrawing Circular 5/2001 is not politicians in the opposition are also trying to do now? We spoke with the 5/2001, spelling the end for much of “One of the most important aspects is to give land to farmers to cultivate, dealing with these big companies.” Secretary to the Ministry of the island’s forest cover. where these forests are situated. It is contrary to election promises given by often between the wildlife parks and politicians, but rather to release these sanctuaries and other DFC forest forests for the use of large-scale reserves. They often act as linkage companies. forests, linking reserve forests with “We recently saw that there was a national parks. These linkage forests act certain company that started an aloe as corridors for animals to move vera plantation in the Wilpattu Forest through. Back in 2001, the importance Reserve. We also saw how they have of bringing these small forest lands given a huge chunk of land near Kala under one circular was understood, but Wewa for a mango plantation to a now the Government is trying to reverse company. So, they are trying to release it.” these lands and give these to large-scale He further added that the absence of businessmen. These businessmen do these Other State Forests will lead to not want to bother with environmental National Parks and Forest Reserves reports, so, that’s why they are trying to being isolated and fragmented. get rid of Circular 5/2001.” “Even if nobody cuts a single tree in a national park or a forest reserve the Endemic species biodiversity of every single one of those threatened forest lands that we spend so much money to protect, their viability is going Animal rights activist, Iraki to drop without these Other State Kodithuwakku also attending the event, Forests. These forest lands will be even added that the move to withdraw or more isolated. So far, it is only because amend the circular will also lead to an of this circular that these large forest increase in the Human-Elephant reserves have connectivity.” Conflict (HEC) in the country. Jayewardene further said that “Every year, HEC increases in our withdrawing or amending Circular country. Over the years 5/2001 could lead to dire environmentalists have identified 16 consequences, since the country elephant corridors that have now been already has a critically low forest cover lost to elephants due to human activity. percentage. It is during a time like this that these “In any country, if the forest cover politicians are trying to withdraw this percentage drops below a certain circular, further aggravating the minimum level, it could have massive conflicts. It is clear that politicians have impacts on rainfall, humidity and no interest in solving the HEC in this agriculture, and endanger the country. We are requesting the livelihoods of people.” authorities to only act to protect our remaining forests and not take such Half a million hectares foolish decisions such as this.” Meanwhile, also speaking at the She further added that endemic event, CEJ Executive Director, species, such as the recently-discovered Hemantha Withanage said that Circular endemic gecko varieties as well as the 5/2001 protects 25 per cent of Sri fish species, Bandula Pethiya, were also Lanka’s existing forest cover. located in these Other State Forests. “According to data, the country’s “Recently, scientists discovered six forest cover is around 2.1 million new species of gecko in Sri Lanka, hectares. So, this circular covers half a which were all found in Other State million hectares of forest, which is about Forests. We also have an endemic fish 25 per cent of our current forest cover. species called Bandula Pethiya. Out of So, the removal or amendment of this the entire world, there is only one circular will leave 25 per cent of our specific place in Sri Lanka where the forest cover unprotected.” Bandula Pethiya is found – it resides in He further added that Circular one of these Other State Forests.” 2/2006 provides adequate provision in case the Government wanted to use a Worse than Wilpattu certain amount of this land for Meanwhile, President of Protect Sri development purposes. Lanka, Ven. Pahiyangala Ananda “In case the Government wants some Sagara Thera, addressing the Media, of these lands for a development project, also said that the destruction brought Circular 2/2006 introduced a about by the withdrawal or the methodology to do this. Through this amendment of Circular 5/2001 will be methodology, if they want a certain land much worse than the deforestation that coming under 5/2001, they can prepare occurred in the Wilpattu Forest Reserve. A8 sunday 5 july 2020 Editorial Editorial sunday 5 july 2020 A9 MCC Could Well be in Line With

Ceylon Newspapers (Pvt) Ltd. No: 101, Rosmead Place, Colombo 07. Editorial Tel: 0117566522, 0117566526, 0117566527 Fax: 0117566545 U.S. Indo-Pacific Strategy Marketing Manager: 0117566550, 0117566551 Politicians are compelled to find Furthermore, he said that during the Circulation Manager: 0117566580, 0117566581 novel ways to manage their campaign study, the Committee found out that E-mail : [email protected] in the run-up to the General Election Karuna Are PCoIs Douglas tells there had been no significant with less than a month left. While, contribution from any State body to the they have to heavily depend on constraints analysis carried out for the campaigns in cyber space, some old eats his detrimental to Northerners not compact in the selection of land and habits were evidently prevailing. One transport sectors for investment. such trend that is heavily involved in The analysis was carried out in 2016 When Protectors election campaigning is slinging mud own words candidates? to live in the past and a report based on it was released in at opponents. 2017. According to the report, six A slightest slip of the tongue may sectors had been studied and land and drag one candidate down the drain at political parties. forthcoming General Election not to use this programme, if implemented, could transport sectors were selected for Turn Abusers this time and era of digital Media. It is also learnt that the Election his photographs in their propaganda become complementary to ACSA and investment. , on the directive of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, is Previous week, we witnessed Karuna Commission has also requested these campaigns. SOFA agreements, thereby making Sri “However, we could not find evidence currently on a mission to rid the country of narcotics dealing and Amman getting into such a mess by Commissions to either halt proceedings No public official serving in the Lanka a part of the United States of any cross-sector analysis on the part trafficking. declaring he is more dangerous than said on a political stage does not party, the Eelam People’s Democratic or in a more practical manner to close Security Forces, the State Service, The President has military strategy,” the PM has stated in of State institutions or whether they Apart from the detection of massive drug hauls and underworld gangs Corona as he was instrumental in warrant an arrest. It is understood in Party which was organised at the doors for the Media. Corporations, Boards and statutory instructed his the note to Cabinet. had studied the possible impact on operating drug rings from prisons, the most alarming outcome of these killing 2000-3000 Sinhalese soldiers war that there is death and sacrifice Kanakarayankulam in Kilinochchi on It is in this backdrop that former bodies should engage in political Meanwhile, Cabinet Ministers have other sectors. Although the report operations is the discovery of the involvement of a large number of officers overnight during war time. Karuna and we should respect those who 3 July. Solicitor General President’s Counsel activities, he further instructed. Secretary to also been asked to come up with their states that it was prepared by “the attached to the Police Narcotics Bureau (PNB) in drug trafficking and witnessed his own allies lining up to sacrificed their lives, be it anyone, he Devananda said that living in the Suhada Gamlath came before the PCoI Secretary to the President, Dr. P.B. opinion, suggestions or reviews on the Government of Sri Lanka and the dealing. attack him and as a recovery noted. past and always recollecting the on Political Victimisation and declared Jayasundera, in a letter sent on 1 July strictly advise final report of the review committee Millennium Challenges Corporation of Last week, a coordinated Police operation apprehended four PNB officers measure, Karuna continued to drag He also confirmed that Bhanu had setbacks which had created immense that former Parliamentarian Patali to all Governors, Ministry Secretaries, relevant parties report when they come to the next the United States of America, in and two civilians. A massive stash of cash, weapons and ammunition, and the past into the campaign. He is led the war at the and hardship to the people in the North Champika Ranawaka, following a meet- District and Divisional Secretaries, Cabinet. partnership with Harvard University’s large quantities of drugs were discovered from the possession of these witnessed putting his mind out about hoisted the LTTE flag at the end. and East would not help to rebuild a ing, held during the tenure of the for- Heads of Corporations, Boards and not to use the The expert committee that reviewed Centre for International Development, officers and their associates. how President When questioned about him country battered by a ruthless war. mer United National Front-led Statutory Bodies and other Heads of photograph of the the MCC agreement was headed by for the Development of a Millennium Further investigations led to the arrest of a number of more PNB officers, helped LTTE by providing them with addressing the slain LTTE Leader as “We must think differently to Government, urged that incumbent Divisions stated that, information has Prof. Lalithasiri Gunaruwan and had Challenges Compact, no Sri Lankan unravelling a cleverly concealed and well-organised racket. latest weapons at that time, which the national leader (Thesiya rebuild our future. The eye for an eye President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and the been received to the effect that candi- President in D.S. Jayaweera, Nihal Jayawardena State body was involved in preparing Colombo Chief Magistrate Lanka Jayaratne on Thursday (2), ordered the were unfortunately used against Thalaivar), he said he had spoken attitude will only damage co-existence Chairman of Avant Garde, Nissanka dates contesting the Poll are using the and Nalaka Jayaweera as other the report. Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to detain and interrogate all 12 Government Forces. thus because he led a group and had and reconciliation. Therefore, the Senadhipathi should be arrested in photographs of the President in their Election members. Speaking about other concerns, Prof. PNB officers who were arrested on drug trafficking charges and the sale of Karuna Amman in an interview also sacrificed his life in a war and people in the North and East must relation to the Avant Garde case. campaign to secure the service of Army campaigns and the Meanwhile, the expert committee Gunaruwan noted that there is a illegal drugs seized during raids conducted by the PNB. with a popular Tamil radio said the that this should be respected. The think wisely and cast their votes to He also said that Ranawaka Officers and public officials, and to appointed to review the proposed MCC condition to have a company limited by Deputy Solicitor General Dileepa Peiris and State Counsels Shakthi late President Ranasinghe Premadasa President had allowed the Tamil build a new future under the questioned him as to why Senadhipathi promise job appointments. public officials to agreement by the President on Friday guarantee known as MCA to manage Jagodarachchi and Kasun Sarathchandra appearing on behalf of the had offered 5,000 weapons, 10 million people to light oil lamps on the death leadership of President Gotabaya was granted his passport despite his The President has instructed his (3) held a Media conference to brief the funds awarded. The presence of Attorney General, explained in Court how the CID net closed in on the ammunition rounds and cash to the anniversary of war heroes, he noted. ` Rajapaksa, “Devananda said. having been indicted. Secretary to strictly advise relevant refrain from about the recommendations and State officials on the MCA’s board of errant PNB officers. LTTE that was fighting the Indian However, Leader of Samagi Jana Referring to Japan which was dev- He added that the said meeting was parties not to use the photograph of the engaging in concerns highlighted in the report. directors does not guarantee that it will On 12 June, a suspect named Chandana Priyankara had been arrested in Peace Keeping Force (IPKF). He said Balawegaya Sajith Premadasa, son of astated by America during World War held under the patronage of former President in Election campaigns and Chairman of the Committee Prof. be in the best interest of the country. Minuwangoda by PNB officers, with 5 grams of heroin in his possession. that during that time, the LTTE had a late President Premadasa was not II, Devananda pointed out that Japan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe the public officials to refrain from political activities. Gunaruwan noted that the Media One of the conditions of the MCC Ensuing investigations revealed the suspect, who was supposedly engaged limited number of militants to fight bothered to respond to these allega- instead of developing any form of together with former politicians and engaging in political activities. conference was called on the Compact Agreement is that no other in tile business, had Rs 100 million deposited in his bank account over a the IPKF. tions. But, all these attacks may have enmity with America, built itself eco- other officials and the proceedings of The Secretary in his letter, with a The Secretary in President’s request to educate the State body has any authority over the period of 14 days. He added that even the JVP killed taken a toll on him so much so that at nomically to challenge America. certain cases, including that of the copy to the Chairman of the Election his letter, with a public about cons of the controversial handling of this company. Not only Statement recorded from this suspect led to the arrest of another, Suneth nearly 80,000 civilians. “I did not say a election rally he held an antique tel- Therefore, the people in the North and Avant Garde case, were questioned. Commission, has instructed to ensure agreement because many that, every decision made by the MCA Asanka, who was found with 6kg and 137 mg of heroin in his possession. that I killed, but that was the history ephone and told his supporters “Cast the East should also develop them- Gamlath added that Deputy Solicitor that all Government officials strictly copy to the misconceptions about the matter are must be with the approval of the MCC. Interestingly, the investigation was handled by one IP Udara attached to of the war which I quoted but it was your vote for the clock (Obalage wati- selves without adopting any form of General Wasantha Navaratne Bandara, follow these orders. circulating in the society. However, in the event of any damage, the PNB. However, this officer, despite having interrogated the suspect, taken out of context and used by the na chandaya Oralosuwata gahanna)” enmity, and focus instead on their during the meeting, had listed out the This gave lead to speculations Chairman of the He said that the committee the State must bear the full Priyankara, had reported that he had not been able to obtain much UNP for political gain during the and this was immediately captured bright future, he noted. names of six suspects, including that of whether President Rajapaksa is going Election recommended not signing the responsibility and the MCC will not be information from the suspect. Later, the probe had been entrusted to General Election,” he added. and circulated on all sorts of social Are PCoIs a threat? Rajapaksa and Senadhipathi and to distance himself from the election Millennium Challenges Corporation held liable for it,” he added, stressing another officer. Karuna also claimed that Tamil and digital Media platforms. requested that action be taken against campaign. Commission, has (MCC) compact in its current state that if the funds were channelled via The interrogation of Priyankara led to information on Gihan Fonseka, politicians of the likes of M.K. Meanwhile, Minister of Fisheries Meanwhile, certain parties have them but he (Gamlath) opposed it, stat- These speculations were also fuelled instructed to without applying major revisions and the Treasury to the relevant Ministry – believed to be an associate of noted underworld kingpin Makandure Sivajilingam, and Aquatic Resources Douglas expressed the view that, ongoing ing that the nature of the case was not by what Prime Minister Rajapaksa pointed out there is no hurdle for the either Transport or Lands – there would Madush. It was learnt Fonseka had transported 90 kg of heroin in a jeep and R. Sampathan had spoken openly Devananda urged the people of the proceedings of two main Presidential one in which action could be taken. recently said in Kurunegala while ensure that all Government to refrain from signing the be no issue. during the curfew period, to hand over to Priyankara. When questioned how about Eelam as being the only North to give up the eye for an eye Commissions, i.e., Presidential He added that due to controversial addressing a rally. The Prime Minister agreement. Moreover, some stipulations of the he was able to transport and keep in possession 90kg of heroin during solution. “I have the video clips of attitude and cast their votes in a Commission of Inquiry into Political opinions given by him and Bandara, said: “I will be doing the politics. You Government “Some persons had told that Sri MCC Compact Agreement would violate curfew, Fonseka had informed Priyankara the stock of drugs had been what they had said at the Pongu sensible manner in order to brighten Victimisation and the Presidential Wickremesinghe stated that this issue know how hard the President works; officials strictly Lanka has signed two parts of the MCC the Constitution of Sri Lanka as well. supplied to him by officers in the PNB. Tamil celebrations that were held their future. Commission of Inquiry on the Easter should be addressed to former Attorney from early in the morning until mid- agreement, so it is not easy to cancel it. According to the conditions, the Further questioning led to Priyankara describing a person bearing close several years back.” Devananda was speaking at an Sunday Bomb Attacks pose a negative General Jayantha Jayasuriya, following night he is at work. follow these That is a misconception. Those two procurement process followed by the resemblance to IP Udara, who had arrived in a jeep to hand over narcotics Karuna also said that whatever is Election campaign meeting of his impact on the candidates of certain which on 17 June 2015, Jayasuriya “He told me, aiya (elder brother) I will agreements have been signed to Sri Lankan State does not apply for to him. It was later revealed that IP Udara led a raid which uncovered 130kg wrote to the IGP stating that there was do the work, you do the politics and I orders. facilitate the MCC Compact agreement. MCC. The National Procurement of heroin and that the 90kg he gave Priyankara was taken from this haul. no possibility of filing charges. am happy with that.” This gave lead to They were not parts of the agreement. Commission (NPC) has the authority to This led to the discovery of a number of other PNB officers who were neck ‘’Questioning a public official in the Nevertheless, President Rajapaksa Therefore, the Government can refrain regulate all State procurements in the deep in narcotics peddling. presence of politicians and other met candidates and the public in the speculations from signing the agreement because no country, issue guidelines, etc. Keeping With this, a few other major incidents came to light. It was revealed that officials in connection with case Anuradhapura District on Friday (3), to agreement has been signed thus far,” the NPC away is a grave violation of the these officers, while serving at the PNB, had allegedly peddled Court proceedings is unethical,’’ he added, ensure the victory of the Sri Lanka whether President he noted. 19th Amendment to the Constitution. productions. A stock of 500kg of crystal methamphetamine (ice) that had stating that he is not obliged to give Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) in the Rajapaksa is going Those two agreements have been Also, there is one line in the agreement been taken into custody by the Navy on 15 April and 581.44kg of heroin away information at such meetings. upcoming election. signed in 2017 and 2018 securing that stipulates all the conditions met and 564.36kg of ice that had been taken into custody on 2 April by the Navy On the other hand, a former senior No to MCC to distance himself grants amounting to USD 7.4 million must be passed in Parliament as had been stolen by the officers in charge of Court productions. official of the Directorate of Military and USD 2.6 million, respectively. At legislation through an act, which would According to the Deputy Solicitor General, these officers had stolen the Intelligence (DMI) giving evidence before President Rajapaksa has instructed from the election this juncture, a reporter noted that require a two-thirds majority. Court production at the time of weighing the illegal drugs after taking them the Easter Sunday Presidential the Cabinet Ministers to present their campaign both the Government and the US Prof. Gunaruwan said that into custody. Commission said although they, on views on the recommendations on the Embassy in Sri Lanka clarified that no intellectual property rights for products Following a raid conducted in Balapitiya on 25 May, though there had several occasions, had warned about final report of the review committee on funds were transferred. and outputs such as transport been 243kg of illegal drugs and five firearms, the PNB officers had removed National Thowheed Jama’ath (NTJ) the proposed Millennium Challenges Prof. Gunaruwan responded: “We are management systems, software, etc will 43kg of drugs and the firearms. One of the weapons has already been leader Zahran Hashim’s extremist Corporation (MCC) at the next Cabinet He also said the review committee not saying funds were received. We’re be held by the MCC. The MCC says that recovered and the remaining four are still to be found. They had allegedly activities to the National Security meeting. Accordingly, the Cabinet has concluded that the Compact saying a grant was secured through an it would be implemented under the removed these items at the time of sealing them. Council attended by President Ministers are expected to submit indi- Agreement, Project Implementation agreement, as preparatory activities. International Law but failed to define Also, a sum of Rs 30 million that had been accrued through the peddling Maithripala Sirisena and Prime vidual reports after studying the Final Agreement, as well as draft Articles of When we queried External Resources which International Laws would be of illegal drugs, two vans, a motorcar, a jeep and a T-56 rifle had been Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, proper Report of the Review Committee. Association of the company to be Department regarding the matter, they applied. It is unclear as to how to discovered in a garden in Daladagama, Maho. actions were not taken in that connec- President Rajapaksa said this follow- established thereto, contain clauses had failed to account for the USD 7.4 resolve disputes between two parties It has also come to light that these officers had maintained close links tion. ing Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and provisions which could be million. They failed to produce a single either. with drug kingpin Madush. These investigations had been conducted over a The official had, on nine occasions, informing the Cabinet that the expert inconsistent with the Constitution of document to show whether the grant The Committee recommended period of 60 days. The suspects had turned out to be the officers from the informed the need to take legal action review committee that did a deep-dive Sri Lanka and the legal system of the came or went or how it was spent. The keeping the transparency regarding PNB who had been involved in the probe. against Zahran to Defence Secretaries into the conditions stipulated in the country. problem here is how come they asked international agreements with the One of the biggest vices corrupting the country’s youth is taking drugs. who served between December 2017 proposed Millennium Challenges The other conditions which have the for another USD 2.4 million when they general public. Although there are periodical raids conducted around the island to and March 2019. Corporation (MCC), have clearly recom- potential of bearing negative failed to report as to how the 1st grant “People should know about how these apprehend those who are involved in such rackets, drug crimes seem to be Had the State Intelligence Service mended that the present Compact implications on national interest, was used.” agreements operate. It is their right to continuing unabated. (SIS) shared information they had Agreement with the conditions and the sovereignty and national security, PM After carefully studying the proposed know about them. So, we Perhaps one of the reasons for this is the involvement, of some officers about the 21 April 2019 Easter Sunday project framework contained in it Rajapaksa has stated quoting the final MCC compact agreement, the recommended making this report from the country’s law enforcement agencies who are entrusted with halting Attacks with the DMI, the attacks could should be rejected. report of the Review Committee. committee decided to recommend public and continuing that practice for organised crimes, in such crimes. have been prevented, the former senior Presenting a note to Cabinet, the “Moreover, the Committee has rejecting it unconditionally. The all the international agreements. The The vision of PNB, as explained in its website is, ‘Towards freeing society DMI official asserted. Premier elaborated that the Committee specifically mentioned that, although Government should not sign the President accepted our from scourge of drugs’. And, their mission is to control the supply and President on has also concluded that the projects the MCC proposal appears to be a agreement under its current statutes. recommendation. The Sinhala version demand of drugs through enforcement and educating the society on evils of ear-marked for implementation using development grant on the surface, it But if the Government wants to sign it of our report has been already drugs especially reaching out to youth. election campaign MCC grants have components that could well be a project proposal they should consider it thoroughly. We published online. It was reported that Unfortunately, due to a few corrupt officers, PNB has failed miserably in could potentially harm Sri Lanka’s developed in line with the US Indo- recommend that it is amended to reflect the Tamil translation would be achieving their mission and vision! President Gotabaya Rajapaksa national, social and economic well- Pacific strategy; and therefore, the the concerns highlighted, upon available soon too. So, we invite the ordered candidates contesting the being. possibility could not be excluded that obtaining a wider consensus, he added. people to read them,” he requested. A10 Sunday 5 july 2020 Focus

Political posturing at its peak… Backtracking and Implementation of the

EastBy Sulochana Ramiah Mohan Container Terminal ECT needs are Super Post has affected the bottom line of Globalisation is a norm accepted Panamax cranes – Indian expert most Ship operators, and the worldwide but geopolitics has been Capt. Swarup S. Bangara persisting low demand is resulting seen as a curse but none realises they Independent Maritime Consultant in high levels of Capacity both go hand in hand. It’s the politics -Sri Lanka, India, Bangladesh, withdrawals. The World Trade is (both internal and external) that is East Africa, Seychelles - projected to reach ’negative‘ 11.9 % within geopolitics than can be topsy- Bangara said that the in 2020, which will impact turvy for countries and Sri Lanka is ECT Project was proposed as a Shipping Lines, who are already not spared, and so is in total disarray Commercial Venture, with the adjusting their sailing schedules over this term geopolitics. participation of Foreign Private accordingly. Hence, it is all the Controversies are surrounding the entities working jointly with a Sri more surprising that there is now US’ Millennium Challenge Lankan Entity. This was mounting pressure on SLPA to go Cooperation (MCC), the light rail subsequently amended into an it alone on this massive USD 650 project and query the Japanese have, Inter Governmental Tripartite million plus project with such the Indian projects and demands and Agreement involving Sri Lanka, uncertainties looming large on the lately the massive USD 650 million- India, and Japan with the ‘possible’ horizon. plus project - the East Container understanding that their individual What ECT needs are Super Post Terminal (ECT) a Tripartite Agreement nominees would jointly operate the Panamax cranes, which can between Sri Lanka India and Japan ECT Terminal. Basis this, a MoC handle containers stowed 28 rows that is in jeopardy. There were other was signed on which dialogue is in across. Usually a Terminal like bitter pills too like the Hambantota process. CICT or ECT would require about Port and the Port City given to China ECT MoC signining ceremony last year Fail to understand reasons why 12 cranes to load and discharge Sri Lanka had to swallow and this whereas that was purchased for the there is now a rethink on this, at the largest Container vessels that could be called Sri Lanka’s strategic expansion project of the Jaya this stage – as practically, it makes are presently operating globally. dilemma and this would continue. Container Terminal (JCT) another sense to have another Entity The question is whether the cranes The ECT, Memorandum of small berth named JCT 5 that does operating within SLPA offering that have arrived in Colombo, meet Cooperation (MoC), a tripartite joint not exist. similar facilities to what CICT these requirements. venture between Sri Lanka, India and Co-convener of Trade Union Terminal presently offers. The CICT is the only terminal Japan that was signed last year on 28 Collective to Protect Colombo Harbour The ECT would only enhance the (Out of the three Terminals - JCT, May 2019. Nevertheless, some 25 East Terminal, Sanjaya Kumara capacity of SLPA to handle more SAGT, and CICT) at this point of Trade unions big and small and all Weligama said that the idea of India Large Container Mainline vessels. time that has the capacity to the employees SLPA staged a massive coming into play comes from Indian If there now exists a feeling that handle the Largest Container strike on Thursday that ended on Prime Minister, who is highly funded SLPA can or should handle this vessels servicing these routes. Friday morning following the in his political career by Adani Group, entire project, then wonder why Hence, in my personal opinion, it discussion held with Prime Minister a shipping company. So inevitably this whole Agreement was initiated would be prudent for Sri Lanka Mahinda Rajapaksa who assured that when the Kerala 18m deep water and signed in the first place. and SLPA to introduce another the matter would be studied and a seaport Vizhinjam also handled by Can the Sri Lankan Government Terminal with International new Cabinet decision would be taken Adani is ready, they will finally divert or SLPA have the resources to connections to balance issues in on the matter. He also ordered those all its cargo coming in to SL to Kerala. invest so much into this project at the long run and also enhance the three small cranes ’unfit’ for ECT to be He also pointed out that giving away a time when the country is facing facilities being offered - which has placed in the ECT till a further such deepwater port when the future mounting external debt situation? been the USP for Colombo putting decision is taken. The protestors would be with bigger ships handling As you are aware, discussions it in par with other Competition praised the Premier on his decision cargo, Sri Lanka will lose massive between Sri Lanka and India are Transhipment Hubs. and kissed each other over the revenue. Capt. Swarup S. Bangara on, regarding Sri Lanka’s request Considering that 60 to 70 per victory. Weligama noted that it was recently for rescheduling its debt cent of the Transhipments handled The ECT protest that a Committee decided that the need bigger cranes that could carry repayment to India (About USD by SLPA are of Indian Origin or cranes that were purchased for the 28 containers sidewise and also 960 million) and also for Currency destined for Indian ports, which One among many people fighting to JCT was directed to be used for ECT questioned that the MoC is yet to be Swap facilities under Bilateral are effectively serviced by Feeders keep the ECT 100% local is and now they are backtracking. “We finalised and why the cranes are Arrangements. I understand operating into/from Colombo. Chandrasiri Mahagamage; General need to start work quickly as already forced in. They have also pointed out discussions are in progress and a Hence it does make sense for India Secretary of All Ceylon General Ports we are paying demurrage some that these cranes are unfit for ECT. decision is awaited on finalising to participate in this project jointly Employees Union who filed a case Rs 101 million per day from 22 June Sri Lanka is a sought after the dates for virtual dialogue. with Japan - who has had their against it at the Supreme Court and for the agent who purchased those Sovereign State in the Indian Ocean Needless to add that Covid-19 presence in Sri Lanka for decades. the next hearing is on 18 October cranes for SLPA. The groundwork for and the doors of the globalisation 2020. He said former SLPA Chairman the ECT has been already completed were opened since the war had come assured nothing would be finalised using SLPA funds USD 25.5 million to an end. The race was too length and facilities to accommodate Vizhinjam port in Kerala without informing them. “He told us he noted. competitive and we must admit that three berths alongside. should worry SL nothing has been finalised and only a He recalled that the Asian the Chinese won many of those ‘races’ The shipping line experts say that memorandum of understanding has Development Bank in already despite others who dished out lots of the ECT shared with India and Japan The shipping companies too will been signed.” He added why we highlighted in 2009 that the ECT memorable services for Sri Lanka would reap benefits ideally, regionally see Colombo as a hub with such should share the country’s asset with venture should be run 100% by the during the war, had only tagged and internationally. India is the most investments and increase vessel others. He said until the SC final SLPA. along. It was not Sri Lanka’s fault important partner for Sri Lanka for calls in the port and increase overall verdict is issued no one should Lamenting that they have been because Sri Lanka is still in dire shipping and logistics as we depend business. What not should be proceed with the agreement on the protesting about the ECT since the straight to meet ends with its trebled nearly 80% our transhipment forgotten is that when the ECT will ECT. discussions came up, he added that international debts some USD 57 throughput of Indian shippers both also offer the very same demand the While the protesters were climbing why did they not cancel the cranes as billion as of now and we want exports and imports. In addition, if we CICT enjoys and if the Indian’s are on those new three cranes on Friday, there are already four cranes for JCT. international players for development have an Indian partner they will barred from the project. There is a there were ships in the Sri Lankan The protesters were in doubt that without any doubts. automatically market Colombo and big Vizhinjam Port in Kerala that is waters waiting to enter the port. They the Japanese will walk out from the Only the rare country can keep itself ensure Port of Colombo will continue nearing completion. When ready will were stranded in the sea. Tripartite Agreement on the ECT as fully isolated from the economic to get a fair share of transhipment. be the first deepwater terminal that The protesters’ main call is not to Japan has been fussing over the loans activities of other countries and many With Japan, on the other hand, it is can accommodate 18m depth which sell a valuable terminal like the ECT government has taken from China, countries have seen astonishing another major maritime nation which no other terminal In India presently to outsiders and the SLPA can run it hence they speculated the ECT would economic growth in the recent past is among the first eight global offers and this too should worry Sri 100% with no shares given to India be handled only by the Indians and due to their willingness to open their operators and they have massive Lanka. and Japan. They said that the they are pressuring the Government borders and markets to foreign market share and a large number of Sri Lanka needs to balance its role Colombo International Container over Chinese influence in the country. investment and trade which could be vessels, so they would be committed and there would be more disputes if Terminals (CICT) was showered to the The CICT is adjacent to the ECT and categorised as globalisation. for the expansion of their business in it fails to understand the importance Chinese given 85% stake and 15% both have 18m deep water berth, both Countries like the USA, India, Colombo and make it one of their of the global community and every reap for the SLPA was too expensive would be competitive and perhaps Greece, UK, Singapore, Hong Kong, regional hubs. move it take it has to be more and that should not be repeated. India will direct all its cargo to come Middle East nations, Caribbean, Latin The partnership will lead to friendly by nature and that positive They also pointed out that despite to the ECT. Nearly 45% of Indian America, many African ports, transparency, less corruption and will vibe is what we need to attract SLPA has 51% stake of the ECT, there cargo is entering the CICT currently. European countries, Malaysia, improve technology, productivity, and international markets. If it is are other locals like the John Keells The backtrack Philippines have ports run by foreign better competitiveness in port with tarnished by political upheaval will have its stakes and the revenue countries. They also collaborate with other Public and Private Partnership domestically, this message would for SLPA would be some 15. The When those cranes were tried to be shipping lines, port operators, private (PPP) terminals in Colombo. spread fast, and rectifying it, would protesters said the rails for the new moved for ECT, it violated the MoC companies, banks etc., are investors, Such investment of global be a tough ask. Already the World cranes were already fixed and only between India and Japan at the same and some are listed companies in partnerships will increase confidence Bank has now downgraded Sri have to slip the cranes to ETC. time. They have informed the stock markets. in Sri Lanka for Foreign direct Lanka to a lower-middle-income Also, the three cranes that were authorities before the ECT berth is In this background, Sri Lanka has investment and it will also pave the country exactly a year after imported from China that had arrived ready why to get these small cranes this rooted sentiments and way to increase logistics-related upgrading to an upper-middle- on 20 June, the protesters urged the for ECT being forced on. According to nationalism overpowering businesses of Japan and India to income country aligned with Algeria authorities to use it for the ECT the clauses of the MoC they would globalisation. There is also a concept invest in Sri Lanka. In addition, it will and Sudan which is startling and that Sri Lanka will not be caught up ensure less geopolitical tension as the there’s lots on the plate for Sri with any power games in the Indian world will see that Sri Lanka open its Lanka to do using the demands When inquired about the and SAARC arrangements. Ocean as said by the President doors for China and other western being positioned in the strategic Indian High Commission the The matter had been taken up Gotabaya Rajapaksa when he was and regional partners. location. ECT and implementation, at the leadership level and has sworn in as the President last year. He whether India has raised its been followed up by senior said we will be neutral. Yet we will concerns, the response was thus: functionaries bilaterally. Most have to accept some hard facts when When was asked the Japanese Sri Lanka – concluded the Responding to a Media query on recently, the High Commissioner accepting international players to Embassy about the progress on Memorandum of Cooperation India-Sri Lanka discussions of India to Sri Lanka held balance the economy. How will that the ECT and information on the (MoC) on the development and regarding financial matters, discussions at senior levels in happen? MoC, the response was thus: operation of the ECT in May 2019, spokesperson of the High Colombo on 29 & 30 June, on The ECT was identified as part of Regrettably tell you that we are based on which Japan is prepared Commission of India said, in moving forward in the ongoing the Port expansion mission to cater to unable to share any governmental to contribute to the earliest context of the situation concerning official discussions regarding Sri the increasing demand for service in documents with external parties. realisation of the development and Sri Lankan economy’s external Lanka’s requirements. In the the international shipping industry. Japan believes that the operation of the ECT through the sector; the two countries have been post-COVID world, India remains The Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) development and operation of the tripartite cooperation. The details engaged in close and constructive committed to partner Sri Lanka website quotes that the Colombo Port ECT of the Colombo South Port is of the cooperation are under discussions on rescheduling Sri closely for the latter’s sustained Expansion Project is situated west to indispensable for the development consultation among the Lanka’s repayment to India, and economic recovery and shared the existing port of Colombo of Sri Lanka as a hub of the Indian Governments of Japan, India and on currency swap under bilateral prosperity. comprising an area of approximately Ocean. The Governments of the Sri Lanka, and are yet to be 600 hectares. The new harbour has three countries - Japan, India and finalised. three terminals each having 1,200m Focus sunday 5 july 2020 A11

The introduction of the new theme for 2020/21 ‘Brave the Present, Rise to the Future’, encapsulates Gateway’s determination to embrace the ‘new normal’ that will be challenging and different to what Gateway College prevailed in mid-March when schools had to shut down abruptly. Gateway schools left no stone unturned during the period of lockdown. They made certain students did not miss any aspect of learning that was important. Gears Up for An excellent teaching and learning programme that led to the school being recognized as a ‘Centre of Excellence’ by none other than Microsoft, an innovative initiative of online examinations, virtual avurudu Next Phase and vesak celebrations, the online sports programme, the conduct of a soft skills programme, and the formation and conduct of clubs and societies are a few examples. In preparing for the next phase of ‘back to school’, Gateway has made certain that they address all aspects needed for students to receive the ‘all- round’ education that the school believes in. Therefore, while the online teaching continues, starting from the 6th of July, the school will commence academic clinics for students to meet with state-of-the-art IT labs. Students their teachers on a ‘one to one’ basis to and teachers also have access to a clarify their doubts, arrange for range of digital devices such as tabs students to participate in sports skills and smart-boards. Furthermore, training and fitness development and Gateway College is fully Wi-Fi enabled take part in a host of co-curricular allowing students to access their activities. In making plans, the school lessons as well as research material has considered the safety of children as at any time. The school has also their priority but is keen to get the linked with Dialog in order to make students out of their current comfort certain that students can have zone. continuous connectivity even at home. Students were offered a very Safety first attractive data package where the Health, safety, and wellbeing of the school paid for connectivity. school community is the top priority at Gateway. With the decision of the Professional Development Ministry of Education to re-open for Teachers schools, the school management took swift action to prepare the premises to Apart from this, Gateway College is ensure the safety of the students. also focused on the professional Many precautionary measures, in development of all members of staff, addition to the guidelines movement register, temperature to learning has never been more meetings have been conducted with which will benefit all students from recommended by the authorities are scanning and sanitizing processes are evident and Gateway hopes to adopt a students, staff, and even parents Play Group to Advanced Level. With being implemented. being followed. Adherence to social hybrid approach that builds on the where the level of interaction has the on-going experience of being a Prefects took the responsibility of distancing practices is mandatory for successes of flipped, blended, remote, exceeded expectation: The successes Microsoft Showcase School, the school manufacturing personalized face every student and member of staff. distance and online learning to of the past months prove that the aims to have all teachers reach the shields, for the entire school using The Management will continue intentionally create learner-centred school is ready for the next step. Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert material of the highest quality constructive engagement with the experiences that are profoundly Some important changes made by (MIE Expert) status and use the provided by the school using the tools public health authorities to ensure a personalized, relevant, and engaging. the school include a BYOD policy for advanced technological tools that have available in the Innovation Labs of all safe and healthy environment for the The AL students took part in a 3 full the seniors, which will enable been made available to the schools. Gateway schools. Easily accessible school community. day programme geared to prepare students to work more efficiently The teachers of Gateway College are multi-sized hand-washing stations them to succeed in life and the while in school or at home. Gateway aware of the changes that must take have been placed at convenient Re-imagining Education; workplace. The programme was College has signed up with Hewlett- place when teaching online: changes locations. Recommended equipment moving to a hybrid model designed to provide students with Packard (HP) in order to facilitate the from the point of planning a lesson all and sanitizing agents are assigned to insights to the right Values, Skills, purchase of necessary devices for all the way to its execution. Microsoft a dedicated in-house team, to Plans are underway at Gateway Attitudes, and Knowledge. A panel of seniors. This will ensure that all believes that the innovative digital facilitate decontamination of the College to assist students to adjust to Sri Lankan and overseas speakers senior students are able to interact teaching methods that the Gateway premises periodically. the new normal with a healthy mix of joined over 700 students from across online and benefit from an teachers use will prove to be great case Strict screening procedures at the traditional teaching and online four Gateway Campuses via live uninterrupted learning experience. All studies to the entire teaching entrance which include a detailed learning. The need for a new approach broadcasts. Similarly, large scale Gateway campuses are also equipped community in Sri Lanka. Profiteering amidst a pandemic NMRA works to rid the market of substandard hand sanitisers

By Dilanthi Jayamanne hydrogen peroxide. The formulation unable to take stricter legal measures be categorised under cosmetic the product can be classed as a containing 75 per cent (v/v) isopropyl in the regulation of cosmetics, was to products or whether it constitutes a cosmetic. But if the only purpose of Although the National Medicines alcohol should also have 1.45 per cent provide safe and quality cosmetics to borderline product. the sanitiser is to kill germs, disinfect Regulatory Authority (NMRA) is taking (v/v) glycerol and 0.125 per cent (v/v) the public. All cosmetics marketed in According to an article based on the and sanitise hands, then the product measures to register hand sanitisers hydrogen peroxide. Sri Lanka, whether manufactured UK market, hand gels and sanitisers is a biocide. and ensure quality standards, Although all hand sanitisers locally or imported, have to be may be a categorised as cosmetics, a However, a product that claims to sources inside the Authority available on the market pledge to registered in compliance with the biocide or even a medicine. A biocide, be for the purpose of preventing expressed scepticism over the legal “cleanse the hand,” there are also regulations published under the according to European legislation, is a specific viruses, such as COVID-19, provisions available to take action those mainly in gel form which are authority of these laws (Regulation No chemical substance or microorganism flu, cold bugs or other named germs, against those that fail to meet these allegedly mixed with herbal 38 of 1984). The objective of intended to deter, render harmless, must be categorised as a medicine. standards. preparations like aloe vera, citrus and registering them under the destroy or exert a controlling Thus the dilemma arises – Sources explained that the NMRA citronella. Some of these brands were NMRA was to ensure that effect on any harmful sanitisers on the local market could Act, No. 5 of 2015 enacted by produced by well-known cosmetic products in Sri organism. On the other hand, be classified under all three Parliament repealed the Cosmetics, manufacturers and also claimed to Lanka were safe and not the decision on a product’s categories, as some of them pledge to Devices and Drugs (CDD) Act, No. 27 give added benefits to the user. injurious to health, to classification should perhaps be kill 99.99 per cent of germs, while OF 1980, which left room for Additionally, during the height of prohibit the use of certain toxic taken on a case-by-case basis, there those that contain gel and claim numerous cosmetic products to flood the COVID-19 crisis in Sri Lanka, a substances as ingredients in depending on the product’s to moisturise hands. the market, such as skin creams – a local distillery stepped into produce cosmetic products, to ensure that function, presentation and the NMRA CEO, Dr. Kamal Jayasinghe majority of which promised to make hand sanitisers under the supervision cosmetic products were properly claims it makes. however clarified that hand-rub or the dark Asian skin fairer. When the of the Excise Department for the labelled with batch markings and If the function of the hand sanitisers had been classified by pandemic occurred, there was a National Institute of Infectious listings of ingredients used. product is to clean and the NMRA under cosmetic products. sudden influx of hand sanitisers Diseases (NIID). However, it remains unclear moisturise hands whilst He said that although the NMRA Act under various brand names and at The NMRA’s objective, although whether hand sanitisers should providing a secondary had repealed the CDDA Act, they had high prices towards the latter part of antimicrobial effect, then been able to sanction Cabinet March; although hand sanitisers were approval to utilise legal provisions already available from reputed brands available in the CDDA Act No 27 of that manufactured hygienic products 1980 to register and regularise and toiletries. cosmetics. Accordingly, the NMRA has This brought about a dire need for taken measures to register all regulation, as there was the risk of cosmetic products, which includes substandard products being sold to hand sanitisers, and would monitor desperate consumers. their quality following registration. However, no action can be taken Measures will also be taken to until the NMRA Act is amended to remove substandard products from include Cosmetics and Drugs. Till the market while steps could also be such time, the NMRA sanctioned taken to stop production or remove parliamentary approval in 2017 to products that have been registered register cosmetics and cosmetic and listed by the NMRA if any of the devices under the CDD Act No. 27 of sanitiser brands reduce the quality of 1980. their products having sanctioned With the large number of hand NMRA registration, he said. sanitisers now flooding the market, Dr. Jayasinghe said that the NMRA there are serious questions regarding also had an agreement with the Sri how many of them met the regulatory Lanka Customs to release cosmetic standards of either the World Health products that only receive NMRA Organisation (WHO) or the Sri Lanka approval, therefore curtailing the Standards Institute (SLSI). possibility of substandard hand rubs NMRA sources said that according reaching the local consumer. to the standards identified by the However, until the NMRA Act is WHO, the formulation containing 80 amended to include cosmetic per cent volume/volume (v/v) ethanol products and devices, the Authority should also have 1.45 per cent (v/v) would rely on the CDDA Act to glycerol, and 0.125 per cent (v/v) streamline cosmetics. A12 sunday 5 july 2020 Focus The Would-be Pharaohs of Today How pyramid schemes continue to trap the desperate and unwary

By Methmalie Dissanayake

Consider the following scenario: a man addresses a packed crowd in a large hall, his words charged with the confidence of a motivational speaker, enough to draw his audience almost into a trance, as he relates the hardships he endured since childhood until a simple strategy helped him become the millionaire he is today. “What I did was to buy X product from Y company and became a lifetime member,” he says. “Then I made a few of my friends join this fortune and my entire life turned upside-down. I’m forever in debt to this company. I would die for it, because a poor man like me was able to come this far only because of this country like Sri Lanka, given its and/or a term of imprisonment not company.” population size. At this point, the exceeding three years. If the offence The echoes of his voice are drowned pyramid collapses and a majority of is committed willfully, the offender is out by the cheers of the raving crowd, participants – all those on the final liable to rigorous imprisonment for some of whom are inspired to tears step – lose their money. between three to five years and a fine by his story. Also, in pyramid schemes, no new of Rs 2,000,000, or twice the amount If this scenario seems new to you, wealth is created. The only wealth received from the scheme’s this next situation might seem gained by any participant is the participants, whichever is higher. familiar: Samantha* is approached wealth lost by other participants. It is Violation of the above provision of by one of his close friends after a long like participants putting their money the Banking Act is specified as an time. Over their conversation, his into a black box. If the money put up “unlawful activity” under the friend casually tells him of a great is distributed in a way that some Prevention of Money Laundering Act opportunity to earn money on the people gain more than they put in, No. 5 of 2006 and the Financial side while doing a permanent job. then some people have to inevitably Transactions Reporting Act No. 6 of “You do not have to do much,” his lose what they put in. Therefore, for a 2006. friend says. “This is a Multi-Level few to gain many have to lose. Unfortunately, even with these Marketing (MLM) company that has Meanwhile, this writer spoke to Laws, pyramid schemes have been expanded into over 100 countries, so at the bottom levels of the pyramid purchase an item such as a water several pyramid scheme victims who operating freely for decades. These there’s no need to worry about doing scheme inevitably lose the money filter, wristwatch or solar panel by all confirmed that they were lured so-called MLM and network business with them. Now I earn a few they put into the scheme. logging on to their website and into the scheme by a close friend or a marketing companies appear from lakhs per month just by staying at In Sri Lanka, there are two types of making two more people join the relative. After they purchased a time to time and lure people into their home. I will be able to purchase my such schemes; namely the Naked scheme later. All these items were product, they had been given special traps, but no Government has taken own BMW in a few months from now. Pyramid Scheme and the Product- priced above Rs 50,000. training towards attracting more action against such companies thus If you’d like to join, I’ll take you to based Pyramid Scheme. The Naked Prior to the curfew imposed people into the scheme. By the time far. This allows such companies to that office; because there are so many Pyramid scheme is one in which no following COVID- 19, such they understood how their so-called claim that their activities are legal, as details about the business that you product is offered. The Product-based recruitment was friends and relatives had made them they show that they have maintained will not be able to understand Pyramid Scheme is operated in most conducted through join a pyramid scheme, it was too their operations for decades. everything If I explain it all now,” the instances as a Multi-level or Network motivational late. When contacted, a former CBSL friend said. Marketing Scheme, in which a seminars One of the official told this writer that existing In Sri Lanka, and around the world participant is required to purchase a organised by victims laws are enough to stop pyramid for that matter, becoming a product at an inflated price in return promoters/ said that it schemes in Sri Lanka. The CBSL has millionaire without much effort is a for the right to recruit more members participants, took him a separate unit to look into such lucrative dream. The people that face into the network. where the two years to matters as well. There have even countless difficulties every day just to The product is therefore a false audience is recover been instances when CBSL officials put food on their tables are naturally front to hide the true nature of the subject to what he had who tried to take actions against drawn to the prospect. scheme – those purchasing the intense spent. pyramid schemes received death But is it as attractive as it seems, or product are not customers, but propaganda Another had threats from such companies, he does a bed of thorns hide beneath the actually salespersons, in that they with regard to refinanced his noted. roses? recruit others who also join the gains that motorbike to He also said that during seminars scheme only to get the right to recruit could be find the money organised by these schemes in rural Easy money ends in further participants. The most derived from for his initial areas, they introduce their agents as tragedy common pyramid schemes now the scheme investment. CBSL officials to convince participants operating are those disguised as at a Ultimately, not that their business is legal. The similarity between the Multi-level or Network Marketing physical only did he fail to Many victims remain silent due to scenarios above is a person Schemes. office or a recover his the shame of knowing that they were promising his potential business public money, but he also deceived. The bottom layers of a partners that they can join his Pyramid scams post hall. lost his motorbike. pyramid become a ‘revolving-door business and effortlessly earn a huge COVID-19 Some people had group’, with the losers leaving and sum of money within a few weeks. pawned their lands being replaced by new members who Anyone facing financial difficulties Following several reports of and gold jewellery to do not know that they have been would find the prospect attractive pyramid scam victims on through loan sharks to find trapped. enough to somehow find the money social media, this writer was able to the money to buy Moreover, the companies use to buy these products – most likely by join a Zoom conference organised by products offered by Government officials to promote the borrowing money from others at high such a company. Since quarantine the company, as they schemes and ingratiate themselves interest rates. laws prohibit mass gatherings, these thought they would be by making contributions to political They dream of sharing the fairytale companies have now turned to using Several able to release them parties. These promoters do not ending of the motivational speaker’s online conference technology to hold participants that attended within a month. divulge the average level of payouts story, where their burdens vanish meetings. The participants only had those seminars told this writer that “When they described to participants, but focus on earnings upon them becoming rich. the chance to listen to their the speakers always assured to me how the scheme operated, of the handful of customers (usually Unfortunately, the reality turns out presentations, while no time was attendees that they use luxury it looked so easy. I only had to the promoters themselves) who have to be far from what they expect – given to ask questions. vehicles and items purchased from purchase a product from them, make gained from the pyramid scheme. most of them end up ensnared in the There were about 80 attendees in the money earned after joining the two people join the scheme, and stay The Economic Offences Wing of grasp of a pyramid scheme. the online meeting, which was scheme. home while doing my other work. I Cyberabad Police in India in Under ‘Pyramid Schemes’, which co-hosted by five individuals who “To our surprise, even though they dreamt of earning millions within two February served notices to several are illegal in Sri Lanka, a person claimed that they earned several told us that they use luxury and or three months, because they celebrities including Shah Rukh makes a payment to earn the right to lakhs per month. One of them even branded items, they came to address showed me I could earn about Rs 2 Khan, Boman Irani and Anil Kapur recruit others into the scheme, for claimed that he recently purchased a the seminar in old cars and wore million within four weeks. When I for endorsing an MLM company which they receive an income. The branded wristwatch worth millions. worn-out clothing. We saw poor came to my senses, it was too late. I based in Hong Kong that has new recruits subsequently make All the hosts highlighted to the people who had attended the seminar could not cover the money I spent to allegedly duped lakhs of investors in payments to get the right to further participants that once upon a time with their whole families,” one buy their initial product even after the country. More than 60 persons recruit others, and in turn receive they were very poor and their world participant said. three years. I’m still paying interest associated with the company for incomes for such recruitment. turned upside-down when a friend of How do pyramid schemes on the money I borrowed,” said one of trying to dupe people in the city were Such a scheme is called a pyramid them introduced them to the MLM the victims. arrested as well. scheme because over time, a company. Basically, the collapse? It is sad to say that the same hierarchy of participants resembling presentations were all about how Legal background and company has been operating in Sri a pyramid is formed with the they became rich by doing nothing According to the Central Bank of why pyramid schemes Lanka for decades freely. In 2017, the introduction of new and larger levels other than recruiting a small number Sri Lanka (CBSL), there are two CID and the CBSL commenced a of participants to the scheme. The of members into the scheme. reasons for the collapse of pyramid still exist probe into three pyramid schemes salient feature of a pyramid scheme Furthermore, they claimed that the schemes. Pyramid Schemes have been made including this particular company, is that the number of participants company is registered under the One is that the number of potential illegal in Sri Lanka in view of the but probe’s results remain unknown expands rapidly in an exponential Company Act of 2007 and therefore participants is finite and limited in potential danger they pose to the to this date. manner at each stage, as new not an illegal pyramid scheme as pyramid schemes, which depend on economy. The Banking Act No. 30 of In Sigalovada Sutta, Lord Buddha participants are drawn in. As a some would allege. bringing in an exponentially growing 1988 was amended by incorporating advised to gather wealth as bees do result, a large majority of participants The participants were told to number of participants. In other the following provision to prevent the honey, and heap it up like an anthill, words, if you get one person who gets operation of Pyramid Schemes: “No while pointing out the importance of ‘n’ persons to join, and each of those person shall directly or indirectly staying away from foes disguised as persons gets ‘n’ more persons to join, initiate, offer, promote, advertise, friends. and so on, the total number of conduct, finance, manage or direct a While speaking to pyramid scheme persons grows by the power of ‘n’ scheme where benefits earned by the victims, what this writer understood (exponential growth). participants to such a scheme are was that they were deceived by such Even if ‘n’ is a small number, the largely dependent on (a) an increase in false friends and their own greed for total number of persons joining the number of participants; and (b) an easy money. So, if a friend or a grows very large in a relatively few increase in the contributions made by relative approaches you with a way to steps. If we take n to be 10, the level the participants in the Scheme.” earn millions without effort, you of 10 million is reached within seven Furthermore, any person who should run fast – or you risk losing steps – and it is no longer possible to contravenes this provision is liable to not only your money, but everything continue with such a pyramid in a a fine not exceeding Rs 1,000,000 you’ve achieved over your lifetime. focus sunday 5 july 2020 A13

By Thameenah Razeek run, it should have a touch of the private sector. The latest circular issued by the The Secretary to the Council, University Grants Commission has immediately after publishing the resulted in vacant positions for the Vacant Seats for advertisement calling for role of Vice Chancellor at seven of applications for the Post of Vice the 15 State Universities, as it has Chancellor of the University, is to raised issues over the relevant request the UGC for the appointment procedure. appointment of three members for Vacancies in the Kelaniya, Visual the Evaluation Committee, as well & Performing Arts; Sabaragamuwa, Vice Chancellors as a suitable person to serve as the Wayamba, Uva Wellassa, Buddhist observer for the UGC at the & Pali; and Jaffna Universities are Evaluation Committee and the yet to be filled. UGC’s attempts to depoliticise appointments Special Council Meeting The Federation of University proceedings. The UGC shall provide Teachers Associations (FUTA) leave posts vacant at several universities the Terms of Reference of the highlighted that the main reason for Observer at the time of appointment. the delay in appointments is the shortcomings in the new circular UGC Chairman clarifies released and published on 04 May, position which left many applicants ineligible. The FUTA objected to In regard to this issue, UGC certain criteria in the new UGC Chairman, Prof. Sampath circular, pointing out that it was Amaratunga said that applications basing the appointment of a Vice for the post of Vice Chancellor have Chancellor on non-academic been called for, but only those businessmen’s opinion of the eligible for the vacancy will be matter. appointed after the General While insisting that the UGC’s Election. move to repeal the circular of “The UGC has issued a new Appointment to the Post of Vice- circular regarding the appointment Chancellor was a pointless exercise, of Vice Chancellor. Prior to the FUTA President, Prof. Shyama issuance of the circular, the Banneheka noted that the new University of Kelaniya had called for circular was intended to prevent the position and sent the names of political appointments being made three eligible persons to the UGC. to university Vice Chancellor However, according to the new positions, although it still fails to circular, the university has been effectively prevent this from asked to re-apply,” he added. happening. FUTA has informed the The University Grants Commission commission in writing regarding the (UGC) at its 1,029th meeting held on issues that have risen accordingly 30 April, having reviewed the after releasing the new circular and existing procedure specified in the the consequences the applicants are said Commission Circular No. facing. 04/2018 in recommending three Prof. Shyama Banneheka Prof. Sampath Amarathunga Prof. D.M. Semasinghe When asked why the UGC decided names of the candidates to the to include the contribution of a Commission for the purpose of According to the old circular, all Council voting by secret ballot, private sector employee, Prof. appointment to the post of Vice eligible applicants for the post of which can be less transparent. The Amaratunga noted that this would Chancellor of a University in terms Vice-Chancellor are to be invited for Professor noted that removing the be a CEO of a private institute, of Section 34(1) of the Universities a brief 10 to 15-minute presentation secret ballot was a good move to bearing the full education Act No. 16 of 1978, decided to repeal to the Council of the university prior While insisting increase transparency in qualification required to evaluate an the provisions stipulated in the said to commencing the election. Under that the UGC’s appointments. applicant for the position of Vice circular and replace them with a the new circular, the Secretary to Speaking about the five-member Chancellor. new procedure. the Council of the university is to move to repeal Evaluation Committee appointed Explaining the main reason for However, applications were called adopt a two-step evaluation process prior to the closing of applications repealing the old circular, Prof. for under the old circular, as the to recommend three names to the the circular of for the post of Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Amaratunga said that the advertisements were published in Commission from among the Appointment to Banneheka said the Committee appointments that have been made the newspaper before 30 April. Prof. candidates that applied for the post would include one member according to the circular issued and Banneheka noted that the UGC of Vice Chancellor. the Post of Vice- nominated by the UGC from among signed by former UGC Chairman, never mentioned a new circular in Prof. Banneheka noted that in the Chancellor was the former Vice Chancellors of other Professor Mohan De Silva, could the vacancies they published before first step, the five-member universities, provided they are not a have been politically influenced due 3 April, and so applications Evaluation Committee constituted a pointless member of the relevant Council, who to the use of the secret ballot submitted under the old circular by the Council conducts a detailed shall be the Chairman of the method. had to be resubmitted after the new assessment of the suitability of exercise, FUTA Evaluation Committee. Insisting that the forthcoming circular was released. “It created a applicants for the post of Vice President, Prof. Two senior-most Academic Election is one of the reasons in the delay in appointments and the UGC Chancellor, shortlists a maximum of Members of the Senate, other than delay in appointments of the Vice had to appoint Acting Vice five candidates, and ranks them in Shyama those two members who represent Chancellors, Prof. Amaratunga said Chancellors at the universities. The the order of marks obtained. He the Senate in the Council, will be that not only the position of Vice new circular has a lot of noted that three names from among Banneheka nominated by the Senate of the Chancellor, but even that of an shortcomings, which are serious the shortlisted candidates are to be noted that the University, and another two should office assistant could not be staffed issues that should be addressed selected by a Special Council be personnel from the Sri Lanka during an election period. “So all the thoroughly,” he added. Meeting convened for that purpose new circular Administrative Service of the highest appointments should be done after Prof. Banneheka explained that on the same day. was intended to grade, who had held or is presently the election, no matter the pending the UGC issued this latest circular “All candidates that apply for the holding the Post of Secretary to a vacancies,” he added. out of the blue on 4 May, after position will be able to let prevent political Cabinet Minister. The last member A Fundamental Rights petition taking a decision on the matter at its themselves to be evaluated by the of the Committee will be someone has been filed in Court regarding the Special Meeting held on 6 February. Council of the university, but under appointments that had held or is presently holding circular’s shortcomings and the The circular repealed the previous the new circular, it seems like the being made to the Post of CEO or Chairman of a obstacles posed to eligible appointment guidelines that were Secretary to the Council can still reputed public/private sector applicants thus far. Prof. set by an existing circular since take an arbitrary decision without university Vice organisation. Banneheka said that the former Vice June 2018 and stipulated a new even considering others’ Chancellor The UGC’s inclusion of personnel Chancellor of Kelaniya University, appointment procedure. recommendations, which can be also from the private sector in the Prof. D.M. Semasinghe filed the Preventing political politicised. All the applicants had a positions, Committee raises concerns as to petition since the circular violates chance to showcase their why someone from the private sector the university’s autonomy. interference qualifications and talents before, although it still should evaluate an appointment to “Many who have applied to the while the current circular only fails to lead a State University. “We don’t position have faced huge When asked about the reason allows a maximum of five applicants understand the contribution of the irregularities and on their behalf, I behind the new circular, Prof. to showcase themselves at the effectively private sector representative to the filed the petition at Supreme Court. Banneheka said that UGC Special Council Meeting convened committee. We also have no idea The hearings will start on 16 July,” Chairman, Professor Sampath for that purpose,” he prevent this about their qualification level and if Prof. Semasinghe added. The Amaratunga had found the noted. from happening it is enough to evaluate someone respondents are the UGC, FUTA and appointments of Vice applying for such a high-level post,” the Council of the University of Chancellors to be politically added Prof. Kelaniya. influenced, with all Vice Confirming the petition has been Chancellors harbouring their filed in Court, Prof. Amaratunga own political agenda. noted that he cannot comment on the matter since proceedings are still underway.

The UGC has issued a new circu- Many who have lar regarding the applied to the appointment of position have Vice Chancellor. faced huge irreg- Prior to the issu- ularities and on ance of the circu- their behalf, I lar, the University filed the petition of Kelaniya had at Supreme called for the posi- Court. The hear- tion and sent the ings will start on names of three eli- 16 July,” Prof. gible persons to Semasinghe the UGC. However, added. The according to the Besides these respondents are new circular, the shortlisted candidates, no others are the UGC, FUTA allowed to participate in the university has presentation and evaluation and the Council been asked to re- process, even in the case of such a nominating three candidates, a of the University candidate being a member of the ballot paper will be prepared Banneheka. apply Council. containing the names of all eligible He also stated that the UGC is of Kelaniya Prof. Banneheka said that applicants and the final taking such a stance to ensure that according to the old circular, after determination shall be made by the even though the university is State- A14 sunday 5 JULY 2020 Focus

How Blind Extremists Trumped Intelligence PCoI reveals poor coordination between Intelligence services

By Buddhika Samaraweera certain occasions had given instructions on the amount of scrap After 30 years of a brutal war in the metal to be issued to the said factory. North and East that claimed He also presented some documents thousands of lives, Sri Lanka saw only with regard to those instructions to ten years of reprieve from that dark the Commission. era until the threat of civil unrest Meanwhile, retired Court of Appeal reared its head again – several hotels judge, Justice Abdul Ghafoor, who and churches were hit by a series of voluntarily testified before the suicide attacks on 21 April 2019 by a Commission on 02 July, said that set of religious extremists, shocking special attention should be paid to the nation and sparking much tourists visiting Sri Lanka and their discussion regarding religious activities to eradicate extremism. He extremism. also said that they should not be These attacks were launched by a allowed to engage in religious group led by National Tawheed propagating activities and added that Jama’ath (NTJ) leader, Zahran there should be a proper regulation Hashim, a resident of the Eastern on matters relating to the import of Province. Likewise, when we hear of books consisting of religious matters. extremism and terrorism, we immediately recall the said two Warnings unheeded provinces, since such extremist and A former senior official of the terrorist groups mostly operate in Directorate of Military Intelligence those areas. However, the threat may the President is to attend, we take Members of the Commission also (DMI), testifying before the be more widespread than we would necessary action regarding their asked whether an application had Commission on 01 July, said that like to admit, as it was recently security,” he added. been sent to the IDB to buy scrap although they had on several revealed that religious extremism has The Additional Solicitor General metal for a factory in Wellampitiya, occasions warned about Zahran’s begun to emerge in the Southern (ASG), appearing for the Attorney- owned by Insaf Ahmed. In response, extremist activities to the National Province as well. General (AG’s) Department, then Several Udayasiri said that such an Security Council attended by former This came to light on 30 June 2020, questioned ASP Satharasinghe individuals from application had been received on 09 President Maithripala Sirisena and when Senior Deputy Inspector regarding a meeting held on 12 April August 2017. “I was not in that Unit Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, General of Police (SDIG) in charge of 2019 at Weber Stadium in , the Southern at the time. Although the factory is proper action was not taken in that the Southern Province, Rohan since it had been reported to the located in the Wellampitiya area, it regard. Jayampathi Silva, testified before the Commission that then-President Province had been registered at a different He had also, on nine separate Presidential Commission of Inquiry Sirisena had attended the said suspected to address,” he added. occasions, informed the same to the (PCoI) probing into the bombings on meeting. Accordingly, 16,856kg of brass and Defence Secretaries that held the post Easter Sunday 2019. When the ASG questioned witness have 328 transformers were issued to the between December 2017 and March He said that several individuals as to what measures were taken to participated in a factory owned by Insaf Ahmed in 2019. from the Southern Province suspected ensure the President’s security, he 2017. He added that the IDB had Adding that the DMI had to have participated in a training said that then-SIS Director, Nilantha training camp in issued 150 metric tonnes of copper, substantial information about most of camp in Hambantota run by the Jayawardana, had sent a letter to the 100 metric tonnes of brass and 50 the suicide bombers that carried out deceased NTJ leader are already in PSD stating that there were no clear Hambantota run metric tonnes of aluminum to the the Easter Attacks, he said that the police custody, adding that certain security threats to the President by the deceased factory in each month in 2018. The tragedy could have been prevented if groups have been reported to be reported thus far, but that the PSD Commission further observed that the the SIS had shared their information carrying out extremist activities in should ensure security in certain NTJ leader are IDB had not approved the issuance of about the possibility of an attack with Galle, Matara and Hambantota areas. areas. already in police copper and zinc to that factory. When the DMI. Testifying further, SDIG Silva said “Jayawardana had said certain questioned regarding this, the witness “The DMI had lots of information there is a high incidence of extremist measures should be taken since there custody, adding said he was unaware of the manner in about some of the suicide bombers. If clashes in areas such as Gintota and were Islamic State (IS) organisation which it was done. the SIS kept us informed on Mahamodara in the Galle district, and followers reported within the area. He that certain Adding that this factory’s annual information they had, these bombers such incidents are constantly being also said in the letter that there were groups have turnover exceeded Rs 600 million, could have been taken into custody,” monitored. “I discuss such matters frequently reported extremist Udayasiri said that it belonged to the he added. with Government officials and activities in the Batticaloa area,” he been reported to large-scale enterprise category and Recalling that the SIS had received intelligence officials every month and added. be carrying out was therefore ineligible to purchase information about the attacks in early give necessary advice,” he added. Irregular dealings by the scrap metal from IDB, under the April and that they had shared the When members of the Commission extremist proper procedure. information with certain instructions, inquired about the measures being Govt officials Confirming Udayasiri’s statement, the witness said the SIS should have taken to obtain information on such activities in Industrial Development Board (IDB) divulged this during the National extremist activities, the witness stated During the Commission sessions on Galle, Matara Deputy Director, Palitha Dickwella, Security Council too. Their failure to that they were working in close 30 June, it was also revealed that who testified before the Commission do this posed a serious problem, he contact with the Muslim community during the tenure of former Minister and Hambantota on 02 July, admitted that he had said. in the area to obtain such in the office of issued scrap metal in violation of He went on to say, “The Criminal information. Minister of Industry and Commerce, areas proper procedure to Insaf Ahmed’s Investigations Department (CID) and Meanwhile, Assistant the Industrial Development Board factory. the Terrorism Investigation Division Superintendent of Police (ASP), P.S.G. (IDB) had issued scrap metal in When members of the Commission (TID) are somewhat reluctant to share Satharasinghe, who served on the violation of the proper procedure to a questioned him regarding Udayasiri’s information with the DMI. But, if all Presidential Security Division (PSD) at factory in the Wellampitiya area application to the IDB. Members of statement that the said factory’s these units are working together it the time of attacks, said that even owned by Mohamed Ibrahim Insaf the Commission then questioned the annual turnover put it under the large would be of great benefit.” though information regarding the Ahmed, who detonated the suicide witness as to what criteria were taken scale enterprises category and On 29 June, Former Director of the possibility of a terror attack in April bomb at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel into account in the process of selling rendered it ineligible to purchase the SIS and the CID, Senior DIG 2019 had been communicated to in the Easter Attacks. them. According to Udayasiri, there scrap metal from IDB according to the Darmagupta Gajanayake testified certain institutions, former President This was revealed when the IDB have been three categories on the proper procedure, Dickwella said he before the Commission that a special Maithripala Sirisena’s PSD was Director – Marketing, Sarath basis of annual turnover, namely, had been unconcerned with the unit had been functioning under the completely unaware about the Udayasiri testified before the small scale entrepreneurs (with an turnover of the factory, but instead Ministry of Defence since 2002 to bombings until they took place. Presidential Commission. annual turnover less than Rs 10 decided on the category allocation investigate certain matters pertaining ASP Satharasinghe, who testified Adding that a Scrap Metal million), small scale enterprises (with based on the recommendation of the to Islam, since some groups were before the Commission on 29 June, Management Unit was established an annual turnover between Rs IDB officer that visited the factory and aggressively propagating the religion. said that the then-Head of the PSD according to a Cabinet decision taken 10-200 million) and medium scale its workforce size. He said that a separate unit had was preparing an evaluation report on 22 July 2005, he said that through enterprises (between Rs 200-600 When the Commission questioned been established to investigate certain after holding monthly meetings with this Unit, a programme was launched million). whether it was inappropriate for him activities related to Islam and another Deputy Inspectors General of Police to sell the scrap metal to industrialists “On 17 May 2017, I was removed to act against the guidelines approved unit to investigate matters pertaining (DIGs) and a member of the State under three categories. He also said from the said Unit without any notice by the Cabinet of Ministers, he to other religions. According to Intelligence Service (SIS) regarding the that in November 2013, a set of and a Deputy Director under me was admitted he should have not done so. information revealed by the unit security of the President. guidelines on the management of appointed as the Head of the Unit. Asked whether any officer had monitoring activities related to Islam, “Current security details of the scrap metal was introduced. Then-Director of the IDB, Mahinda advised him to do this, Dickwella said a leader of an Indian extremist President are generally obtained He further said that according to Jinasena, did not give a proper that the IDB Director General, P.L.U. organisation who had visited Sri through these meetings. For example, the programme, industrialists wishing explanation as to why I was removed,” Ratnamalala, and its former Lanka in 2004 was deported, SDIG if there is any scheduled event that to buy scrap metal should submit an he also said. Chairman, Mahinda Jinasena, on Gajanayake added. sports sunday 5 july 2020 A15

U-19 Division One (Two Day) Tournament Name of Player: Sheran Fonseka School: St. Joseph’s College, Colombo Date of birth: 2002.01.31 Batting Style: LHB Position: Keeper(35 Victims) Matches: 17 Innings: 27 Josephian Sheran Not Outs:6 Runs: 1036 Ave: 49.33 Highest Score: 135 (St. Benedict’s Colombo) 100’s: 2 (St. Benedict’s 135, Ananda Colombo 102) 50’s: 8 (Zahira Colombo 72, Maris Stella Negombo 76, St. Sebastian’s Moratuwa 85*, Royal Colombo Sheran Fonseka passes 1,000 runs 62 & 53*, S. Thomas’ Mt. Lavinia 82, St. Anthony’s Katugastota 61*, St. Anne’s Kurunegala 52) Sheran Fonseka of St. Joseph’s champions at the Prima Champions Division One Inter Schools Cricket Rev. Fr. Ranjith Andradi; Master- Colombo (defending champs),passed Cup Inter Provincial Cricket Tournament. in-Charge Priyantha Fernando, Fared this Season the 1,000-run milestone this season Tournament in 2015 conducted by Sheran graduated to the 1st XI Samantha Priyanath, Sanjeewa St. Patrick’s Jaffna 17 in the ‘Singer Trophy’ Under-19 . team during the 2018/19 season. Fernando, Asiri Caldera and Zahira Colombo 72 & 05 Division One Inter Schools Cricket He scored 817 runs with four The team emerged Under-19 Prashantha Ranaweera; coaches Maris Stella Negombo 76 & 19* (Two day) tournament. centuries and five half centuries in Division One (two day) champs. He Nevil Weerasekara, Dinesh De Mazenod Kandana 07 & 06 The left hander is initially from the Under-15 inter schools cricket scored 675 runs with five half Chandimal, Nimal Dabare, Neil St. Aloysius Galle 03 Holy Cross College Kalutara, where tournament in 2017. centuries during the season. He Rajapaksha, Chamara, Roger D.S. Senanayake Colombo 11 he started his career with the Under- He was a member of the Sri Lanka also played in the big match against Wijesooriya, Niroshan Wesley Colombo 15 13 team and led the ‘A’ team in Schools Under-15 team that toured St. Peter’s. He claimed 46 victims as Bandarathilake, Pasindu St. Sebastian’s Moratuwa 13 & 85* Royal Colombo 62 & 53* 2015. Malaysia to participate in the wicket-keeper. Liyanarachchi, Kavindu, Darantha Isipathana Colombo 18 He scored 585 runs in the Under- ‘Tuanku– Jafar Memorial This season Sheran scored 1036 Menerigama, Asiri Perera and Trinity Kandy 13 & 34 15 inter schools cricket tournament Trophy”tournament, where they runs in 17 matches (27 innings) Lahiru. S. Thomas’ Mt. Lavinia 82 conducted by Sri Lanka Schools emerged champions, and was with two centuries and eight half He specially thanks the OBA, all St. Anthony’s Katugastota 25 & 61* Cricket Association in 2016. adjudicated man of the match in centuries (Ave. 49.33).St. Joseph’s teachers, all players, students and Mahinda Galle 32 & 21* He represented the Kalutara the semi-final. advanced to the quarter-final of the their parents of both schools, St. Benedict’s Colombo 135 & 13* District team in the Prima Sheran joined St. Joseph’s in tournament. Advisory Committee of St. Joseph’s Ananda Colombo 102 Champions Cup inter district 2018 and was a member of the He thanks the Principals Rev. Fr. College, his family members and St. Anne’s Kurunegala 04 & 52 tournament, and Western Province champion Under-17 team that Camilus Fernando, Rev. Fr. Carltan scorer S. Ravindran. South Outer team which emerged participated in the ‘Singer Cup’ Silva, Rev. Fr. Travis Gabriel and (IR) Messi unwilling to Curran tests negative for Covid-19 Sam Curran has tested Ageas Bowl and Emirates Old negative for Covid-19, after Trafford, the West Indies being forced to withdraw base, in the lead-up to the renew Barca contract from England’s intra-squad Test series. three-day warm-up match at There will be concerns, Barcelona captain Lionel the Ageas Bowl through however, if another sickness Messi has called off illness. bug is making its way through negotiations over renewing his Curran, who made a brisk the England squad, after the contract with the club and is 15 on the first day but did team’s build-up to the first Test ready to leave the Catalans not get a chance to press his in South Africa in December when his current deal expires case for a Test place with the was ravaged by illness. in 2021, according to a report ball, has been self-isolating There were some concerns by Spanish radio station in his room at the team hotel about the health of Dan Cadena Ser on Friday. after coming down with Lawrence, one of the likelier The report said Messi and ‘sickness and diarrhoea’ on candidates to stand in for Joe his father Jorge had begun the second day of the match. Root during the first Test, who discussing renewing his last He underwent a Covid test did not come out to bat in the deal with the club, which was during the lunch interval on top six in Team Buttler’s signed in 2017, but that he no Thursday, and would have Sam Curran second innings at the Ageas longer wishes to stay at the been required to spend a Bowl, after a fluent fifty on the Camp Nou. further seven days in monitored by the team first day. The report added that Messi isolation had it turned out to doctor, Mark Wotherspoon. However, the likelihood of is angry about leaked media be positive, with implications Curran will receive a any transmission has been reports that appeared to make for the rest of the squad further Covid-19 test on reduced by the social- him seem responsible for ahead of the first Test Sunday, along with the rest distancing measures being Lionel Messi events at the club, such as the against West Indies on 8 of the playing and taken within the team January sacking of coach to their bid to retain the players had led to Valverde July. management group. environment, and a team Ernesto Valverde, and that he Spanish title. being sacked. However, he will now The news comes as a relief spokesman confirmed to is frustrated about the squad's Barca trail Real Madrid by In a February interview return to training over the for the ECB, who had last ESPNcricinfo that Lawrence lack of quality. four points in the title race with newspaper Mundo next 24-48 hours but will week reported a total of 703 was fine. The Argentine's with five games remaining Deportivo, he declared the continue to be closely negative Covid tests at the (ESPN) representatives and Barcelona after Real beat Getafe 1-0 on team were not good enough did not immediately respond Thursday. to win this season's to requests for comment. Previously known for his Champions League. Messi, who turned 33 last shy personality off the pitch, Then in April he criticised month, scored his 700th Messi has become more vocal the Board for implying players Wearing 'Black Lives Matter' logo career goal on Tuesday against in his criticism of the club in were not willing to accept a Atletico Madrid, but the the last year. pay-cut to help the team's milestone strike ended in In January he hit out at financial difficulties during England to join Windies disappointment as Barca drew Sporting Director Eric Abidal, the coronavirus pandemic. the game 2-2 in the latest blow who he said had implied (Reuters) England will join West message supported ‘progress week, Premier League Chief Indies in wearing a ‘Black and societal change’ and did Executive Richard Masters Lives Matter’ logo on their not extend to being an defended the players' shirts during the three-match endorsement of any political decision to wear ‘Black Lives Test series, the England & organisation. Matter’ on their shirts, Wales Cricket Board (ECB) "We are aware of certain describing the cause as a said on Thursday. aspects of the movement that moral one. West Indies had earlier promote their own political England captain Joe Root, IPL likely overseas announced they would be views, and their actions are who will miss the first Test to wearing the logo designed by not supported in any way by be at the birth of his child, Toss-up between UAE and Sri Lanka Alisha Hosannah, the partner the ECB and our players," said the players were hoping of Troy Deeney, captain of Harrison said in a statement. to use the international The 13th edition of the Premier League soccer side "This moment is about platform to eradicate racial Indian Premier League (IPL) is Watford. unity. We are proud that our prejudice. in all probability headed to Deeney was contacted by players will stand alongside "There has to be equal foreign shores with UAE and the ECB and Cricket West those from the West Indies opportunity and equal rights Sri Lanka in the race to host Indies and permission was and wear a logo that for all," he added. the 2020 edition of the cash- granted for the logo to be embodies that philosophy. Ben Stokes will lead rich league. The final displayed on the collar of the "It is fitting that they do so England in the first test announcement is expected shirts, in line with in solidarity with athletes against West Indies, which soon as the Board of Control International Cricket Council from the football world who starts in a bio-secure for Cricket in India (BCCI) is regulations. wore it first." environment at the Ageas still awaiting an official ECB Chief Executive Tom At the hearing of the Bowl, Southampton on decision on the fate of the T20 Harrison said the move to Digital, Culture, Media & Wednesday. World Cup which was to be display an anti-racism Sport (DCMS) Committee this (Reuters) held in Australia in October- November. Speaking to IANS, a BCCI official in the know of into, so we will decide soon," is priority," the official had developments said that while the official said. explained. the idea was to play the league While the mood was initially IPL Chairman Brijesh Patel Gabriel added to WI squad in the country, the situation in favour of hosting the league has also been vocal that with regard to the coronavirus in the country, the current location shouldn't be a concern West Indies have officially pandemic might force the situation has almost made it if the league is being played added fast bowler Shannon Board to ultimately take the certain that the tournament will behind closed doors. "They Gabriel to their squad for the tournament to either UAE or have to be taken outside India. (Emirates Cricket Board and Test series against England. Sri Lanka. IANS had earlier reported Sri Lanka Cricket) have Gabriel had been part of the "We are yet to decide on the that the decision-makers in the informed us that they are reserve personnel on tour, but venue, but in all probability, it BCCI were divided in 3:2 ratio prepared to host the IPL. But has proved his fitness and is going outside this year. The with regard to deciding on the our first preference is India, if comes into the 15 vying for condition in India doesn't look venue of the league. "See, it is a we get the Government's contention at the Ageas Bowl suited to have so many teams case of the decision-makers permission. next week. come in at one or two venues being divided 3-2, if that is how "It is certain that we cannot Gabriel underwent ankle and then create an atmosphere you wish to understand the play at more than three or four surgery last year and has not which will be safe for the current scenario. venues in India, but the played a first-class game players as well as the general "There are a couple of voices permissions will depend on since September, but he public, even though the games who feel that having the how the COVID-19 outbreak claimed figures of 8 for 122 may be played behind closed tournament should be the pans out. Otherwise we will across West Indies' two Shannon Gabriel doors. priority, and if that means have to explore playing warm-up games in "The race is between UAE taking it out of the country, so overseas, which will be the last Manchester. firepower and potency to the England in the Caribbean last and Sri Lanka and we will need be it. So, while we are working option. Once you are playing "I am delighted that we are bowling unit." year - although there have to decide on where we host the on the overall plan, the venue without spectators, it doesn't able to add Shannon to the The addition of Gabriel to been concerns over the fitness league depending on the is an area which will need really matter where you are Test squad," CWI lead selector the full squad means West of captain Jason Holder, who situation there with regard to further deliberation. Also, at playing as long as it suits Roger Harper said. "He has Indies will be able to call upon has been suffering from an the coronavirus pandemic. the end of the day, safety of the television timings," Patel said. shown that he is fit and the same attack that helped ankle niggle and only bowled Logistics also need to be looked players and everyone involved (IANS) ready, he will add experience, them to a 2-1 series win over five overs so far on tour. A16 sunday 5 july 2020 SPORTS

World Cup 2011 Match fixing allegation Investigation Concluded, Players Cleared Three-year imprisonment and a fine for false accusation under Sports Law No doubts about 2011 World Cup final – ICC By Anjana Kaluarachchi complaint to the SIU to conduct an immediate inquiry Police Special Investigation into Aluthgamage’s claim; Unit for Prevention of Offences though Sports Minister Dullas Relating to Sports Act, stated Alahapperuma said in his on Friday the investigation into personal opinion he doesn’t former Minister think that Aluthgamage’s Mahindananda Aluthgamage’s claim has any merit. allegation the 2011 World Cup Timeline of Incident final was fixed has been concluded. 18 June: Former Minister “Following statements from Aluthgamage claimed that the former Minister Aluthgamage, 2011 World Cup final was Chief Selector of the 2011 ‘sold’ and he takes World Cup Aravinda de Silva, responsibility for his claim, skipper which made several top and player , cricketers react. and perusing various 19 June: Aluthgamage documents, there is no questions why players are evidence to back this bothered about it since he’s allegation; hence, Police SIU talking about officials, and has decided to conclude the also stated that he complained investigation and has Aravinda de Silva leaves Police Kumar Sangakkara arrives at Mahela jayawardena arrives at Upul Tharanga leaves Police SIU to ICC regarding this in submitted a report to Acting SIU Police SIU Police SIU 2012. Sports Ministry IGP,” said Police spokesperson, (Pic by Akila Jayawardana) (Pic by Ishara Kodikara) Secretary K.D.S. Ruwan SSP Jaliya Senaratna. hours on Tuesday. back his allegation and Chandra handed over a There was public uproar and Aluthgamage in Manager of the ICC Anti- confirmed that he takes full written complaint to the Police protest in-front of SLC on Corruption Unit, Alex responsibility for making this SIU requesting to investigate Thursday when former skipper trouble for false Marshal, issued a statement claim. The allegation created the matter. Kumar Sangakkara had been that they don’t have any an uproar among cricketers 20 June: Chairman of summoned to Police allegation? doubt about the 2011 World There is no record and politicians alike. Selectors, Aravinda de Silva, Headquarters to record a With the investigation Cup final. of any letter 2011 World Cup team urges BCCI and ICC to statement, Whereas the Police concluded stating there is no “The ICC Integrity Unit has members Sangakkara, investigate the matter. had gone all the way to evidence to back looked into the recent regarding this Jayawardene, Thilan 24 June: Police SIU visit Nawalapitiya to record the Aluthgamage’s claim to prove allegations regarding the ICC matter sent by Samaraweera and Lasith Aluthgamage’s office in former Minister’s statement. those so-called 14 points he Men’s Cricket World Cup Malinga immediately voiced Nawalapitiya to record his Sangakkara had been at stated are suspicious, the Anti- Final 2011. At this time, we the then Sri their concerns regarding the statement. In his statement he Police Headquarters from 9.00 Corruption Act comes in to have not been presented with Lanka Sports claim and urged the Minister said he only suspected several a.m. until 6.30 p.m. on play. Punishment for any evidence that supports to come forward with evidence incidents during and leading Thursday 2 July and earlier making a false allegation the claims made or which Minister to the without making ‘baseless up to the match, including not too other cricketers had been is a maximum three-year would merit ICC, and senior allegations’. approving final changes to the summoned to Police imprisonment and Rs launching Aluthgamage then stated squad. Headquarters one after 100,000 fine. an ICC staff at the that he was talking about 27 June: Written evidence another, Section 13 of the time have officials and not the players. produced confirming final On Thursday, Police SIU Prevention of Offences This also added fuel to the fire changes to the squad were stated that former skipper Relating to Sports Act confirmed they where Jayawardene approved by Sports Ministry. had also states: have no questioned how anyone else 30 June: 1996 World Cup been summoned, but on “Any person who other than the playing XI final man of the match and Monday morning stated that makes any false recollection of could fix a match, while de 2011 World Cup Chief Selector he will be given another date. allegation in any receiving any Silva who was furious over Aravinda de Silva spends more But to everybody’s surprise, information this allegation, urged BCCI than 6 hours to record his Jayawardene came in the disclosed by such letter which and ICC to investigate the statement at Police SIU. morning to Police SIU and such person would have led to matter. 01 July: World Cup opener made a statement. under Section But then the Minister Upul Tharanga spent more “I was asked to come today 16 of this Act an investigation. changed his stance and stated than 2 hours recording his and give a statement, but last knowing the We have no that he only suspected the statement at Police SIU. night around 11.30 p.m. they content of Extract from Prevention of Offences Relating to match had been fixed and 02 July: 2011 World Cup informed me that they will give such Sports Act, No 24 of 2019 reason to doubt asked the Special skipper Kumar Sangakkara me another day instead of allegation to the integrity of Investigation Unit to look into spent more than 9 hours today (3). In the morning, I saw be false or a few key areas during and recording his statement at certain Media reporting that I having reasons to the ICC Men’s leading up to the match on 24 Police SIU. A protest was held won’t be coming today due to believe that such allegation is June, when Police recorded a in-front of SLC personal reasons. So, I thought not true, commits an offence Cricket World Cup statement from him at his against continuous there should be some fairness under this Act and shall, on Final 2011”-ICC office in Nawalapitiya. harassment of Kumar to this and that’s why I came conviction by a Magistrate, be investigation under He repeatedly claimed that Sangakkara and other here in the morning. I never liable to a fine not exceeding the ICC Anti-Corruption Code. the Sports Ministry did not cricketers over informed that I’m unable to rupees one hundred thousand There is no record of any letter accept the final changes to the unsubstantiated match-fixing come. Cricket is a well- or to imprisonment for a period regarding this matter sent by corroborate the claims, we will team, but later official allegations. Huge public respected sport. I have a not exceeding three years or to the then Sri Lanka Sports review our current position. If documents revealed the uproar in Social Media. responsibility to create an both fine and imprisonment.” Minister to the ICC, and anyone has any evidence that Sports Ministry had accepted 03 July: Former skipper environment to enable the According to legal experts, senior ICC staff at the time this match or any other has the last-minute changes to Mahela Jayawardene who was sport to be played in a proper Police SIU now has the option have confirmed they have no been subject to match-fixing, include Suraj Randiv and summoned to record his manner in the country in the of taking this case to Court recollection of receiving any we would urge them to get in Chaminda Vaas to the final statement was asked not to future. So we are cooperating regarding the false allegation such letter which would have contact with the ICC Integrity squad. According to the come. Police SIU concluded and helping with this as they themselves state led to an investigation. We team,” added ICC. Sports Law once the Ministry the investigation citing no investigation as much as we Aluthgamage’s claim doesn’t have no reason to doubt the What Happened? approves the squad, decision evidence to back can,” said Jayawardena. have any merit. integrity of the ICC Men’s regarding the playing XI is Aluthgamage’s claim. Earlier Police also recorded No reason to doubt Cricket World Cup Final The Incident started when taken by the selectors in ICC state that they have no statements from World Cup 2011,” said ICC . former Sports Minister consultation with the captain, doubt about the integrity of opener Upul Tharanga for 2011 World Cup final “We take all allegations of Aluthgamage made this manager and coach. 2011 World Cup final, and more than two hours on this nature extremely allegation on 18 June during Secretary to Sports Ministry, they had not received any Wednesday, while Aravinda de – ICC seriously and should we an interview with Sirasa TV. K.D.S. Ruwan Chandra, letter/complaint regarding the Silva spent more than six Meanwhile, General receive any evidence to He claimed he had evidence to handed over a written matter. Mercedes one-two as F1 gets back on track Formula One got back on track in Barcelona last February. health and safety conditions, with changed circumstances on Friday but The last time any of them raced was teams operating in ‘bubbles’ and with Mercedes bringing a familiar in Abu Dhabi in December last year. isolated from each other in a look to the timing sheets as six times “Motor Sport is back!,” said paddock, with drivers wearing face world champion Lewis Hamilton led International Automobile Federation masks even when talking to the team mate Valtteri Bottas one-two in (FIA) President Jean Todt on Twitter, media by video link. Austrian Grand Prix free practice. moments after the cars left the The race will be run completely The Briton did 41 laps and lapped Spielberg pitlane to begin lapping the without spectators for the first time in with a best time of one minute 04.816 scenic circuit. Formula One history. seconds in a damp and overcast “It’s good to hear the engines and “We are all used to a lot of fans in session, 0.356 faster than the Finn. see cars again and almost get back to the campsites, grandstands... but the Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, winner some phase of normality,” Red Bull most important thing is we are finally of the last two races at his team’s team boss Christian Horner told Sky back on track and can put up a good home track, was third fastest and F1 television. show,” said McLaren principal 0.602 off Hamilton’s pace. “We all look like we’re in some kind Andreas Seidl on a Zoom call. McLaren’s Carlos Sainz, who is of hospital programme, with all the McLaren triggered the heading to Ferrari at the end of the face masks and the PPE (personal abandonment of the Australian race season, was first on track and Lewis Hamilton during practice, as F1 resumes protective equipment)... but other in Melbourne after an employee finished the session fourth. than that working practices are very tested positive for the new Ferrari, who have recognised Sunday’s race, the first of two in Australian opener on 15 March much as normal. coronavirus. problems with their car but have to Austria on successive weekends, will before a wheel had turned. “This is day one of the season so it’s Seidl said the entire team had a wait for updates, had Leclerc be the latest start to a championship Friday marked the first time all the a little bit odd coming here halfway clean bill of health after the latest 10th and Sebastian Vettel, after the COVID-19 pandemic forced drivers had been on track together through the year.” round of tests. celebrating his 33rd birthday, 12th. the cancellation of the scheduled since the end of pre-season testing in The race is being run under strict (Reuters)

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