Colombo Criminal Investigation Department (CID) reports that a large-scale money laundering operation allegedly converted billions of rupees earned through drug trafficking into legal income through business channels. Investigators state that a network led by Kehelbaddara Padme moved illicit profits generated from a major narcotics distribution system and handed over large sums of money at regular intervals.
CID findings indicate that Ishara Sewwandi played a key operational role in transferring these funds. Investigators allege she repeatedly collected large cash amounts from Padme’s trafficking network and delivered them to Gampaha Osman. Authorities say Osman then injected the money into his business activities, allowing the funds to appear as legitimate earnings through structured investments and financial circulation.
investigation report.
Police further report that Osman maintained multiple commercial ventures where he integrated the illicit funds. Through this process, investigators believe the network successfully disguised illegal proceeds as lawful income over time. CID officers continue to trace additional individuals who may have supported or facilitated these transactions.
Authorities also confirm that Ishara Sewwandi remains in custody under detention orders. They note that Gampaha Osman also remains under detention while investigators conduct continuous questioning to map the full extent of the financial network. Officials have expanded the inquiry to identify other associates linked to the operation.
Ongoing Investigations and Links to Major Criminal Cases.
Authorities plan to interrogate Kehelbaddara Padme regarding the alleged money transfer system and its broader criminal connections. Investigators aim to determine how the network coordinated cash movement, concealed sources of income, and integrated illicit proceeds into legitimate businesses.
Police continue to collect financial records, witness statements, and transactional evidence to establish the full structure of the alleged laundering operation. They emphasize that the investigation remains active and may lead to further arrests as new connections emerge.
