The Nuwara Eliya Preservation Organization alleges that the Nuwara Eliya Police has failed to take action regarding a complaint lodged by the Nuwara Eliya Post Office and a notification issued by the Department of Archaeology concerning damage to the lightning conductor at the historic Pink Post Office in Nuwara Eliya. The building, which is world-famous among both local and foreign tourists and has previously been at the center of controversy, is reportedly an archaeological site. The organization further claims that powerful political influences are behind the failure to initiate an investigation.
Speaking to the media on behalf of the Nuwara Eliya Preservation Organization, Gayan Chathuranga Wijayabandara and Nalaka Dinesh Ratnayake (20) made these remarks during a media briefing held this morning.
Further commenting, members of the organization stated that the Superintendent of the Nuwara Eliya Post Office had lodged a complaint with the Nuwara Eliya Police on 2026.04.10. The complaint stated that the copper strip connected to the lightning conductor of the historic Nuwara Eliya Post Office—an asset of archaeological and historical value—had been broken in the middle, resulting in damage and misplacement of the lightning conductor. A corresponding notification was also sent to the Department of Archaeology regarding the matter.
Following this complaint, the Department of Archaeology has informed the Nuwara Eliya Police through a letter dated 2026.04.29 to conduct a formal investigation. However, the organization claims that no formal investigation has been initiated to date.
The Department of Archaeology has become involved in the matter as the Nuwara Eliya Post Office was designated as an archaeological site under a Gazette notification dated 23.02.2007.
The organization further noted that under the Archaeology Act, even unauthorized excavation at an archaeological site can result in imprisonment. They questioned why no action has been taken in relation to alleged damage and possible misappropriation of historical artifacts, which they claim may be worth hundreds of crores of rupees.
They also questioned the source of pressure allegedly preventing an investigation, and raised concerns over claims that the lightning conductor may have been sold and proceeds misappropriated, allegedly involving cyber-related theft.
The organization emphasized that the lightning conductor, which they say is centuries old, holds immeasurable historical value. They further expressed suspicion as to why a proper investigation has not been carried out despite both a police complaint and a directive from the Department of Archaeology.
They also referred to previous efforts under the former Ranil Wickremesinghe administration, alleging that attempts were made to rapidly develop the site following claims it would be sold to a foreign company, and stated that this has raised further doubts in connection with the current incident.
The group added that if a financial fraud has occurred, it should be properly presented before court, and if suspicions exist, suspects should be arrested accordingly. They further alleged that there is strong suspicion of political interference behind the police failure to take action or report the matter to court in relation to the alleged damage and misplacement of the valuable lightning conductor.
The organization has called on the public of Nuwara Eliya to remain vigilant and urged those who previously supported the protection of the post office to also speak out regarding what they describe as a large-scale theft and criminal activity.
When contacted regarding the complaint and ongoing investigation, the Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the Nuwara Eliya Police, Mr. Indunil Premalal, stated that all necessary investigative procedures related to the complaint have been properly carried out.
He further stated that several statements have already been recorded in connection with the complaint, but that such information cannot be disclosed to the media at this stage. He added that further legal action will be taken as soon as possible.
