Artist Vinod Tharanga has been arrested by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) in connection with a bribery complaint.

According to the Commission, the suspect was taken into custody for allegedly soliciting a bribe of Rs. 30,000 each from two individuals — a school principal residing in Mathugama and an Air Force officer from Ahungalla.

The complaint reveals that the suspect had promised the principal he would halt an ongoing investigation against her at the Commission and provide an official letter confirming the case would not proceed, in exchange for Rs. 30,000.

In the case of the Air Force officer, the suspect had allegedly demanded the same amount, offering to ensure that the officer would not be arrested in a separate investigation by the Commission, and to provide a written assurance to that effect.

Vinod Tharanga is scheduled to be produced before the Colombo Chief Magistrate’s Court. Investigations are ongoing.