SLPP calls on Rajitha to be questioned over white van abduction claims

• Says questioning will expedite ongoing investigations
• Assures investigation will be independent 
  
   

By Nuwan Senarathna

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) yesterday called on President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to direct law enforcement authorities to question United National Party (UNP) parliamentarian Dr. Rajitha Senaratne regarding any knowledge he may have of alleged white van abductions.

Minister S.B. Dissanayake

Rohitha Abeygunawardena

Speaking to media at the SLPP head office in Battaramulla, State Energy Minister Rohitha Abeygunawardena said the law enforcement agencies should conduct a comprehensive investigation into claims made by two individuals.  

“Dr. Rajitha Senaratne cannot run away from responsibility as he was the one who brought two individuals claiming to be alleged white van drivers in front of the media. Allegations levelled against President Gotabaya Rajapaksa over alleged white van abductions cannot be taken lightly. A proper investigation needs to be conducted,” Abeygunawardena said.

Abeygunawardena argued if Dr. Senaratne questioned law enforcement authorities would be able to reveal vital information on claims made by two individuals who were part of a press conference that took place ahead of the Presidential Elections. According to Abeygunawardena, authorities should question Dr. Senaratne over several controversial statement made by him.

“Dr. Senaratne claimed he had seen money kept in gunny bags. He also said Rajapaksa family owned Lamborghini sports cars. These claims need to be investigated properly and Dr. Senaratne should be questioned to find out whether his allegations were true or false.”

Speaking at the same press conference, Land and Land Development State Minister S.B. Dissanayake said questioning Dr. Senaratne was essential to clear doubts of the public over alleged white van abductions.

“It is important to investigate allegations levelled against the two individuals over alleged white van abductions. Once these investigations are over we will be able to find out truth behind those allegations,” he said.

Dissanayake said investigation into alleged white van abductions were being conducted independently and assured there would not be any political interferences. 

Pix by Lasantha Kumara