Former Minister's Media Secretary Arrested in Sri Lanka Over Misuse of Funds

Prasad Manju, a former media secretary to Sri Lankan Minister Wimal Weerawansa, has been arrested by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). The arrest stems from allegations of misusing ministry vehicles for media activities, resulting in a financial loss of approximately 1.746 million rupees to the state.

Investigations revealed that Manju allegedly used a vehicle assigned to his position, along with fuel allowances, for media-related purposes. Simultaneously, he reportedly rented vehicles for the State Engineering Corporation's work on a daily basis, utilizing these for media activities as well. This dual usage is cited as the cause of the significant financial loss to the government.

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The suspect has caused a financial loss of Rs 1.746 million in this manner, it was revealed during the investigations.

The 52-year-old suspect, residing in Maligawatta, Colombo 2, was taken into custody after being summoned to the CID for questioning. He faces charges related to misappropriation and violations of the Public Property Act.

The investigation into the alleged misuse of public funds and resources is ongoing, with authorities seeking to establish the full extent of the financial irregularities.

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Investigations have revealed that the suspect, while receiving the vehicle and fuel allowance entitled to his position, had also used vehicles obtained on a rental basis for the work of the State Engineering Corporation for media activities, thereby causing a loss of Rs 1.746 million to the government.