A joint team of investigators from Sri Lanka’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) has departed for Australia as part of an ongoing probe into an alleged bribery scheme linked to the acquisition of aircraft by SriLankan Airlines.The overseas investigation is focused on allegations that a payment of US$2 million was received from European aircraft manufacturer Airbus in connection with the procurement of aircraft for the national carrier.
Investigators are examining transactions related to agreements entered into by SriLankan Airlines for the purchase of Airbus aircraft, including a deal for six aircraft in 2014 and another agreement involving seven aircraft in 2017.
The CIABOC is currently conducting inquiries into the financial arrangements surrounding these aircraft procurement deals, while the CID is supporting the broader criminal investigation.
Officials are expected to gather information and examine relevant evidence during their visit to Australia as part of efforts to establish the facts surrounding the alleged transactions.
