Thursday Oct 09, 2025
Thursday Oct 09, 2025
Wednesday, 8 October 2025 00:25 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
Opposition lawmakers yesterday submitted a motion in Parliament calling for the appointment of a Select Committee to investigate the release of 323 containers from the Colombo Port without mandatory physical inspection, a breach of standard Customs procedures that has raised serious concerns over national security and public safety.
The motion cites findings from a Committee of Inquiry appointed by the Treasury Secretary on the instructions of President Anura Kumara Disanayake, following media reports on the irregularities. The inquiry committee had concluded that the release of the containers was “contrary to the law” and warned that bypassing proper inspection posed “serious risks to national security, revenue collection, and public safety.”
The Customs Officers’ Union has publicly distanced itself from responsibility for the contents of the released containers, citing procedural violations.
Lawmakers also highlighted allegations that some of the shipments could have been used to smuggle narcotics, arms, or other prohibited items into the country, concerns intensified by recent detections of large narcotic consignments and illegal firearms.
The proposed Select Committee is tasked with examining the legality of the release, the accountability of government officials and private entities involved, and the adequacy of current laws and procedures. It is also expected to recommend legal and administrative reforms to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Under the resolution, the Speaker or a nominee will chair the Committee, which will comprise up to 30 members representing all recognised political parties. The Committee will have the authority to summon experts, conduct hearings even during prorogation or dissolution of Parliament, and submit periodic interim reports, with a final report due within three months.
