According to officials, the arrest was made following an investigation into claims that Chandrasena had received the payment as part of a controversial aircraft purchasing agreement involving Airbus during his tenure at the national carrier.
The Bribery Commission stated that the alleged payment was linked to the procurement of aircraft from the European aerospace manufacturer, which has been under international scrutiny over bribery and corruption allegations related to aircraft sales.
Chandrasena was taken into custody after appearing before the Bribery Commission to record a statement. Authorities said further legal action will be taken based on the findings of the ongoing investigation.
Investigations into the Airbus deal have been ongoing for several years, with Sri Lankan authorities examining possible irregularities and corruption linked to the aircraft acquisition process.
