Basil faces protests at BIA in attempt to flee

12 Jul, 2022

Former Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa was prevented from leaving Sri Lanka this morning following protests by passengers and officials at the Bandaranaike International Airport.

Rajapaksa attempted to leave via the ‘Silk Route’ lounge at the BIA but was spotted by some passengers.

Videos circulating on social media showed the passengers raising objections and demanding that the former Finance Minister not be allowed to leave.

Eventually Immigration and Emigration officers in the ‘Silk Route’ lounge withdrew from operations as a mark of protest.

It was reported that Basil Rajapaksa was then forced to turn back.

Rajapaksa was to leave for Washington via Dubai on an Emirates flight this morning. (Colombo Gazette)

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