The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has launched a special investigation into an alleged vehicle smuggling racket involving the illegal importation of luxury vehicles worth hundreds of millions of rupees while evading customs duties, allegedly linked to the son of a former President, State owned newspaper Dinamina reported.
According to police sources, the alleged racket operated during previous administrations. Investigators have identified several luxury vehicles that were allegedly smuggled into Sri Lanka concealed inside shipping containers as part of an organised operation.
The CID is also investigating information suggesting that some of the vehicles were used by children of politically connected individuals. Preliminary investigations have further indicated that vehicles allegedly imported through the scheme were registered with the assistance of corrupt officials at the Department of Motor Traffic.
In one case under investigation, the registered owner of a vehicle is reportedly the son of a politician. Investigators have found that customs duties had subsequently been paid for the vehicle, raising questions over whether such vehicles were allowed to be regularised instead of being confiscated by the authorities.
Police sources said the CID had seized another vehicle linked to the alleged racket shortly before the change of government. The individual in possession of the vehicle had allegedly told investigators that it belonged to the son of a former President.
The vehicle was later handed over to Sri Lanka Customs and remains in its custody. According to police sources, it has not been released after payment of duties following the change of government.
Police sources further said the son of the former President is expected to be summoned to the CID next week to record a statement as part of the ongoing investigation.
