Sri Lanka Detains Former Navy Chief Over Corruption Allegations

Jul 3, 2026

64 min

Jul 3, 2026 09:31

Sri Lanka arrests ex-navy chief on corruption charges

## Arrest of Wasantha Karannagoda

Sri Lankan authorities have detained Wasantha Karannagoda, a former navy commander, on charges of corruption. The allegations involve his role in the recruitment and overseas training of Yoshitha Rajapaksa, son of ex-president Mahinda Rajapaksa, without meeting the necessary qualifications.

## Background and Legal Challenges

Karannagoda, who led the navy during the end of the Tamil separatist conflict in 2009, was promoted to admiral of the fleet in 2019. He is currently not serving in any active naval position. The Bribery Commission accuses him of corruption related to the 2006 enlistment of Yoshitha Rajapaksa.

## Related Legal Issues

Yoshitha Rajapaksa, 38, is also facing legal troubles, having been arrested last month for allegedly misusing public funds for training in the UK. He is out on bail. Additionally, Karannagoda is implicated in war crimes and conspiracy to murder charges, which were initially dropped but later revived under President Anura Kumara Dissanayake's administration.

## Broader Context

The current government, led by President Dissanayake since September 2024, has been actively pursuing cases against the Rajapaksa family and their associates. These cases include various charges, many of which are still pending in court. The crackdown is part of a broader effort to address corruption and unresolved high-profile crimes in the country.

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