Sri Lanka Moves to Arrest 1996 World Cup Hero Arjuna Ranatunga in Rs 23.5 Cr Oil Scam Case
Former Sri Lanka captain and former Petroleum Minister, charged with incurring a massive loss to the state by purchasing fuel irregularly
From Glory in Cricketing to Corruption Allegations
Authorities in Sri Lanka have taken steps to arrest Arjuna Ranatunga, the island nation’s former national cricket captain who led the team to that historic 1996 World Cup win, in a large-scale corruption case. The CIABOC has accused Ranatunga of misusing his powers as petroleum minister by ignoring approved tender procedures. Investigators say oil was purchased through costly spot purchases instead of long-term contracts, incurring losses to the government estimated at nearly 800 million Sri Lankan rupees, about Rs 23.5 crore.
Colombo court proceedings revealed today that the alleged financial misappropriation had occurred in 2017 pertaining to 27 different fuel purchases. Officials informed the magistrate that Ranatunga is currently overseas and will be arrested upon his arrival in Sri Lanka. His brother Dhammika Ranatunga, who was chairman of the state-run Ceylon Petroleum Corporation during the alleged fraud, was earlier arrested during the investigation. However, Dhammika was later released on bail, but the court has maintained a travel restriction on him as the investigation continues.
The developments have triggered a raft of reactions throughout Sri Lanka, particularly given Ranatunga’s status as an adored sporting icon. Now 62, he is remembered for revolutionizing Sri Lankan cricket and delivering one of the nation’s proudest sporting moments. But the serious nature of the allegations has muddied his public legacy, making sure his time in public office supersedes the highlights of his achievements on the field.
The Colombo Magistrate’s Court has fixed further hearing for March 13 while the police continue to gather evidence. This falls in line with the current administration’s more extensive effort to root out corruption; it is part of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s broader agenda of ensuring accountability and regaining citizens’ trust of state institutions.
