The main Opposition, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) questioned the Government’s plans and ability to prevent the importation of harmful chemicals into the country as it has become a concern, adding that ongoing probes into the same seems to be lacking transparency.

SJB Parliamentarian Suranga Rathnayaka made this statement at a media briefing yesterday (9) while referring to the substances found in several places that are believed to have been brought into Sri Lanka to manufacture crystal methamphetamine (commonly known as Ice).

He expressed concerns about politicising the issue, which he said will cause a disservice to the public. “Instead of conducting proper probes into this container issue, the Government is trying to gain various political advantages. The Government is pointing fingers towards the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), while the SLPP is also leveling allegations against the Government in this regard. Both these parties are trying to gain political advantages through this incident.”

The Customs was not reachable for immediate comment yesterday regarding steps taken to address the importation of chemicals implicated in Ice manufacturing-related allegations. However, quoting the Customs and the Police, media reports said that while the Customs has called for a report regarding the containers, the Criminal Investigation Department is conducting a separate investigation.

Meanwhile, Rathnayaka criticised the Government for the latter’s failure to present to the Parliament the inquiry report pertaining to the 323 containers that were released earlier this year without being subjected to the relevant checks. He further said that no person has been penalised regarding the matter.