The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) of the Opposition stated that it would file a defamation case against the Deputy Minister of Public Security Sunil Watagala over remarks linking party politicians to the owners of containers used to smuggle chemicals for illicit drug production.

Speaking to The Daily Morning, SLPP General Secretary and attorney Sagara Kariyawasam said that the party had already lodged a complaint with the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) calling for an investigation into baseless allegations made by various parties against them. “We are hoping to file a defamation case against Watagala. The Government is trying to cover up its failures by slinging mud at us. We are now discussing legal action and will proceed with it during the course of this week.”

The remarks came after Watagala, speaking at a recent media briefing, presented photographs of politicians including SLPP National Organiser and MP Namal Rajapaksa and alleged that they were connected to the owners of the containers used in chemical smuggling operations. “These politicians are behind the supply chain of this drug syndicate. We are conducting investigations and will take action regardless of their status,” he said.

Meanwhile, last week, the SLPP suspended the membership of former Angunakolapelessa Pradeshiya Sabha Member Sampath Manamperi, who is currently being held under detention orders, after he was accused of possessing chemicals used in the production of crystal methamphetamine (known as ‘Ice’). 

Kariyawasam said that the party maintained a strict policy against members facing such serious accusations. Police have stated that Manamperi and his brother concealed about 50,000 kg of chemicals at a property in Middeniya.