Former Sri Lanka cricket captain Arjuna Ranatunga is under investigation in connection with an alleged fuel procurement irregularity involving the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation.
Arjuna Ranatunga Faces Possible Arrest in CPC Fuel Procurement Case
Former Sri Lanka cricket captain and 1996 World Cup–winning leader Arjuna Ranatunga may face arrest in connection with an alleged corruption case linked to fuel procurement during his tenure as Minister of Petroleum Resources Development.
According to court submissions made by officials of Sri Lanka’s Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption, the case revolves around an estimated financial loss of nearly Rs. 800 million to the state-run Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC). Investigators allege that the loss occurred following the cancellation of long-term fuel supply tenders for the 2017–2018 period and the subsequent shift to spot tenders at significantly higher prices.
Ranatunga has been named as the second suspect in the case. His brother, Dhammika Ranatunga, the former chairman of the CPC, was identified as the primary suspect and was produced before court earlier. Dhammika was released on bail after posting a personal surety of Rs. 1 million and was instructed not to interfere with witnesses or the ongoing investigation.
Officials informed the court that Arjuna Ranatunga could not be taken into custody at present as he is currently overseas. The Bribery Commission has sought court approval to proceed with his arrest once he returns to the country, citing the seriousness of the alleged financial loss and the need for further investigation.
During court proceedings, it was stated that three long-term procurement agreements meant to ensure stable fuel pricing were abruptly cancelled. Authorities claim the decision to rely on spot purchases instead resulted in higher costs for the CPC, ultimately burdening the state-owned enterprise.
The developments mark a dramatic turn for one of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated sports figures. Widely respected for his leadership during the country’s historic 1996 Cricket World Cup victory, Ranatunga has often been associated with integrity and public service, both during and after his playing career.
Investigations into the alleged procurement irregularities are ongoing, and officials say further legal action will depend on the outcome of financial audits and witness statements.
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