Millions Misappropriated

The Special Presidential Commission to probe massive fraud and corruption states that state funds amounting to Rs 13.2 million have been misused in holding a political rally in Negombo Urban Council grounds during the previous presidential election.
 
It is also disclosed that the funds allocated for the development of Negombo lagoon have been misappropriated in this manner.
 
These funds were allocated by the Negombo Urban council in its budget presented last December.
 
The Negombo lagoon development project was to be implemented by the Lanka Fisheries Harbour Corporation.
 
It is also revealed that Rs. 4.3 million have been spent to print caps and T- shirts and another Rs. 8.9 million have been spent for other expenses in holding the Negombo political meeting.
 
Former Parliament administrative director and Secretary of the Special Presidential Commission to probe massive fraud and corruption Lasil de Silva said that statements have been recorded from the then Acting Fisheries Minister Sarath Kumara Gunarathne and several officers including the chairman of the Ceylon Fishery Harbours Corporation.