Former Basnayake Nilame arrested over financial fraud

A 72-year-old former Basnayake Nilame of a temple in Kandy was taken into custody today (16) by the Kandy Police Special Crimes Investigation Division in connection with a large-scale financial fraud.

Police investigations revealed that the former official and his son allegedly obtained approximately Rs. 180 million from numerous individuals under the guise of business investments.

The son reportedly collected the funds by issuing checks under his father's name.

While the former Basnayake Nilame is currently in custody, police are conducting operations to apprehend the son.

The investigation is being carried out by the Kandy Special Crimes Investigation Division under the direction of Central Province Deputy Inspector General of Police Sudath Masinghe.