DIG’s Wife Among Suspects in Illegal Treasure Hunt in Anuradhapura
The Anuradhapura Magistrate’s Court has ordered an urgent report on alleged illegal excavations in Timbirigaskadawala, Sravasthipura, Anuradhapura, where suspects, including the wife of a Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police, were reportedly searching for hidden treasures.
Chief Magistrate Nalaka Sanjeewa Jayasuriya instructed the Director General of Archaeology to verify whether the land near a shrine, where the excavation took place, belongs to the Department of Archaeology and holds archaeological significance. The court further ordered the prompt submission of an archaeological report.
Earlier, Acting Magistrate Chandana Weerakoon directed all telecommunications companies to provide police with phone records of the suspects. This move was aimed at investigating claims that a DIG allegedly tried to influence police officers by phone to release those arrested.
The suspects, including the DIG’s wife, have been remanded until August 26. Police have also been ordered to submit a progress report on the ongoing investigation.
Meanwhile, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has launched a special probe into the case under the directives of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Priyantha Weerasooriya.
