The Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) has initiated an investigation into the assets of suspended Inspector General of Police (IGP) Deshabandu Tennakoon.
The probe was launched following the discovery of a significant stock of foreign liquor, hampers filled with gifts, and various food items during a search of Tennakoon’s residence in Hokandara.
Additionally, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has commenced a separate inquiry to determine whether the suspended IGP had violated the Prevention of Money Laundering Act in acquiring his assets. Authorities suspect that several assets linked to Tennakoon are not registered under his name, prompting further investigations into whether he used third parties to conceal ownership.
Meanwhile, Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala confirmed to The Sunday Times that the government intends to pursue legal action against Tennakoon for alleged dereliction of duty during the ‘Aragalaya’ period.
The Bribery Commission’s inquiry was initiated based on submissions made by Additional Solicitor General Dileepa Peiris, PC, in the ongoing case related to the 2023 Weligama shooting incident. This case involves the killing of a Colombo Crimes Division officer. Peiris had opposed bail for Tennakoon when he surrendered to the Matara Magistrate’s Court. Consequently, the court ordered his remand until April 3.
Despite being suspended from official duties by the Supreme Court since July last year, Tennakoon remains the IGP in a technical capacity. In his absence, Senior DIG Priyantha Weerasooriya is serving as Acting IGP.
The National Police Commission does not hold the authority to interdict an IGP, as the position is appointed by the Constitutional Council (CC) on the recommendation of the President. Any disciplinary action against Tennakoon falls under the purview of the President and the CC. However, his removal would require an impeachment motion to be presented before Parliament.
