Yoshitha Rajapaksa, the son of former Sri Lankan president Mahinda Rajapaksa, was arrested on Saturday. He faces corruption charges related to a property purchase made during his father’s presidency, which ended in 2015.
Investigation Into Alleged Misconduct
Yoshitha, a former navy officer, was arrested in his hometown of Beliatta. The investigation centers on the purchase of a holiday home in the religious town of Kataragama. This case is part of a broader investigation into alleged corruption during Mahinda Rajapaksa’s tenure.
Gotabaya Rajapaksa Questioned Over Property Deal
Yoshitha’s uncle, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who served as the president before Mahinda, was also questioned by police last week. His involvement in the same property deal, located in Kataragama, is being scrutinized.
Mahinda Rajapaksa Seeks Security Reinstatement
The arrest coincides with Mahinda Rajapaksa filing a petition in the Supreme Court. The petition seeks to restore the security that was reduced by the government last month. This petition adds another layer to the ongoing political developments in the country.
Namal Rajapaksa Also Under Investigation
In addition to Yoshitha’s arrest, Mahinda’s eldest son, Namal Rajapaksa, has also been questioned. Police interrogated Namal over another property case involving the Rajapaksa family.
New Government’s Efforts to Hold the Rajapaksas Accountable
Since the new government took office in November under President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, there has been a concerted effort to investigate and prosecute individuals linked to alleged corruption. The government has pledged to arrest anyone accused of misconduct during Mahinda Rajapaksa’s presidency from 2005 to 2015.