Probe Expands into Unchecked Container Release at Colombo Port 📈

The Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC) met for three consecutive days last week to expedite investigations into the unauthorized release of 323 containers from the Colombo Port. The probe focuses on the bypass of mandatory physical inspections, a critical breach of customs protocol. • Core Findings & Evidence: Senior officials, including Sri Lanka Customs Director General Seevali Arukgoda, provided evidence regarding the clearance process. The investigation seeks to identify accountability for the release of these "red-flagged" containers without required security checks. • Committee Oversight: Chaired by Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara, the PSC aims to conclude the inquiry within three months. The committee is tasked with submitting policy recommendations to reform logistics and port administration to prevent future revenue loss or security risks. • Key Leadership Changes: Ports and Civil Aviation Minister Anura Karunathilaka has officially resigned from the committee. A replacement member is expected to be appointed shortly to maintain the cross-party composition of the 12-member panel. _Note: Investigations are ongoing based on provisional evidence recorded from customs and port authorities._