The group was arrested by the Police Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID) over allegations that a Sathosa lorry was misused during Fernando’s tenure as Minister of Cooperative and Internal Trade. Investigators allege the vehicle was employed in operations connected to an ethanol company reportedly owned by Fernando, causing an estimated loss of Rs. 2.5 million to the state.
Fernando was first taken into custody on January 5. His bail request was denied on January 9, and the court ordered that he and the other suspects remain in remand.
The investigation also led to the arrest of Fernando’s son, Johan Fernando, on December 30 in Kurunegala. Former Sathosa Transport Manager Indika Ratnamalala was also taken into custody, accused of preparing forged documents related to the case.
