(LANKAPUVATH | COLOMBO) – The United States has imposed sanctions and visa restrictions on two former Sri Lankan officials for their involvement in significant corruption.
Kapila Chandrasena, former CEO of SriLankan Airlines, is accused of accepting bribes to ensure the airline purchased overpriced Airbus aircraft. Udayanga Weeratunga, Sri Lanka’s former ambassador to Russia, allegedly orchestrated a corrupt scheme involving the procurement of MiG aircraft for the Sri Lankan Air Force.
The U.S. Department of State, under Section 7031(c), has publicly designated both individuals and their immediate family members, barring them from entry into the United States.
Sri Lanka
Kapila Chandrasena, Former CEO of Sri Lanka Airlines
Pursuant to Section 7031(c), the Department of State is publicly designating Kapila Chandrasena for his involvement in significant corruption. Chandrasena accepted a bribe while serving in his capacity as Sri Lankan Airlines CEO in exchange for ensuring Sri Lanka purchased Airbus aircraft for over market value. As part of this action, his immediate family members are also designated.
Udayanga Weeratunga, Former Ambassador to Russia
Pursuant to Section 7031(c), the Department of State is publicly designating Udayanga Weeratunga for his involvement in significant corruption. Weeratunga orchestrated and personally benefitted from a corrupt scheme involving the procurement of MiG aircraft for the Sri Lankan Air Force. As part of this action, his immediate family members are also designated.
