CID confirms no threats to CoPF Chief’s life

Monday, 10 June 2024 01:55 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

CoPF Chairman and MP Dr. Harsha de Silva

Informs Speaker investigation not required based on CoPF Chairman and SJB MP’s latest statement
Dr. de Silva wishes to remain silent on statements made by various people including Police regarding his comments in Parliament

The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) has yesterday informed the Speaker of Parliament that Committee on Public Finance (CoPF) Chairman and MP Dr. Harsha de Silva has stated there are no threats to his life, rendering an investigation unnecessary.

This development follows Public Security Minister Tiran Alles’ directive last Friday to Inspector General of Police (IGP) Deshabandu Tennakoon to have the CID investigate alleged threats against Dr. de Silva. The instruction came after Dr. de Silva claimed in Parliament on Friday that he faced threats related to the inquiry into the new visa issuance system.

“I addressed intimidation and false accusations during the VFS inquiry. Despite these challenges, my dedication to transparency and accountability remains strong. We’ve accomplished much, including key financial reforms,” de Silva posted on ‘X’ last Friday.

The CID promptly contacted Dr. de Silva, requesting to record a statement about his claims on Saturday. However, Dr. de Silva responded by thanking the Public Security Minister and the CID, and clarified that his statement in Parliament was made under Parliamentary privileges. He also informed the Police that he had told the Speaker there were no threats to his life.

According to the Police Media Division, Dr. de Silva reiterated that an investigation was unnecessary but indicated that he would notify authorities if any threats emerged.

Consequently, the CID has informed the Speaker of Parliament of this update, according to a media statement from Police.