May 05, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s anti-corruption watchdog Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) has revealed a significant spike in public engagement during the early part of 2025, with more than 1,250 complaints received in just three months.
From Janury 01 to March 31, the Commission reported a total of 1,267 formal grievances, highlighting persistent concerns over the integrity of public institutions.
In response, the Commission intensified its operational activity, conducting 24 targeted raids across various parts of the country. These actions resulted in the arrest of 20 individuals allegedly involved in bribery or corrupt practices.
The arrests spanned a broad cross-section of public service roles, reflecting the widespread nature of the issue.
Amongst those apprehended were officials from critical sectors, including a principal of a government school, a labour ministry officer, and a representative from the Department of Immigration and Emigration.
The Commission also detained a public health inspector, a field officer, a justice ministry employee, and a revenue department assessor. Notably, six civilians with alleged links to illicit dealings were also amongst those taken into custody.
The Commission has since moved swiftly in taking legal action, initiating 21 cases against 24 individuals in the first quarter of the year.
CIABOC officials have encouraged continued cooperation from the public whilst pledging to maintain momentum in investigations and prosecutions.
