Former Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who led the country during a devastating 2019-2024 economic crisis, was arrested and appeared in court yesterday over allegations he misused state funds while in office, police said.
Wickremesinghe, 76, who lost power in a 2024 election, had been investigated over a visit he made to London to attend his wife’s graduation ceremony, local media reported.
Police confirmed his arrest for alleged misuse of public funds.
“Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe has been arrested and produced in court. We are awaiting the court directive to decide what further steps need to be taken,” a police spokesperson said.
Wickremesinghe’s office did not respond to a request for comment from Reuters.
An ally from his United National Party (UNP) proclaimed his innocence and suggested the case was politically motivated.
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