Gold smuggling MP accused of grabbing 214 acres of state land

By Sujeewa Thathsara

MP Ali Sabri Raheem, who was recently nabbed and fined by the Customs for having smuggled a consignment of gold and mobile phones, has allegedly encroached on 214 acres of state land and planted onions, the Puttalam District Coordination Committee Chairman has said, adding that the government has incurred a loss of Rs. 200 million, as a result.

Chairman of the Puttalam District Coordination Committee MP Chinthaka Mayadunne, said that the land grab had also deprived the government of tax revenue. He asked the government to take legal action against Raheem.

The meeting was held to review the development activities in the district and was presided over by the Governor of the North Western Province, Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena.

Raheem is still functioning as a member of the Parliamentary Committee on Ethics and Privileges. He has denied any wrongdoing where the land issue is concerned.