The Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID) has informed the Matara Magistrate’s Court that measures will be taken to suspend the use of an approximately one-and-a-half-acre property in Browns Hill, Matara, allegedly belonging to former Minister Basil Rajapaksa.
The formal notification comes amid an ongoing court case filed by the FCID regarding the acquisition of the prime land, which is situated along Eliyakanda Road in Browns Hill. According to details presented to the court, the property has reportedly been utilized for coconut cultivation and was previously owned by a German national identified as Herbert Keller.
The FCID alleges that the land was subsequently purchased by Rajapaksa for an estimated sum of Rs. 60 million. Investigators are focusing on the precise circumstances surrounding the transaction and the procurement of the estate, prompting the agency to pursue restrictions on the property’s ongoing use.
Key Developments
- The FCID informed the Matara Magistrate’s Court of impending steps to suspend the use of a Browns Hill estate linked to former Minister Basil Rajapaksa.
- The property encompasses approximately one-and-a-half acres on Eliyakanda Road and has reportedly been used for coconut cultivation.
- The estate was previously owned by German national Herbert Keller before allegedly being acquired by Rajapaksa for approximately Rs. 60 million.
- The investigation remains focused on the acquisition process, with further legal steps planned regarding the land’s utilization.
The Matara Magistrate’s Court is expected to review and consider the FCID’s relevant submissions on the matter in due course as proceedings continue.