BOI says independent probe launched over attack on Omani investor

The Board of Investment (BOI) said yesterday an impartial investigation has begun over the alleged attack of an Omani investor and his export-oriented apparel manufacturing plant.

Sources said that the apparel factory in Katana was outside the Katunayake zone and the BOI is actively assisting the investor in the relocation and has facilitated re-export of raw material in the interim. “Police protection was provided. An impartial investigation is being conducted to inquire into the incident and action will be taken based on the findings,” BOI sources added.

Late March, the Managing Director of the BOI-approved apparel factory decided to shut down following an assault by a group of unidentified but politically linked individuals.

A group of five had illegally entered the factory premises and had initially assaulted the security official on duty after which they had attacked the apparel factory Managing Director, who is an Omani national, at his residence in the factory premises.

It was reported that a gang allegedly backed by a politician in the Gampaha District had carried out the assault.

The Omani businessman had been on an observation visit to Sri Lanka. Over 300 Sri Lankans are employed at his apparel factory which is the sister company of a famous Omani apparel chain.