-By A Special Correspondent
(Lanka-e-News -27.Jan.2025, 11.15 PM) Nimal Lanza is no stranger to controversy. A prominent politician from Negombo, he has built a reputation as a man who knows how to navigate the murky waters of Sri Lankan politics. But his name has also become synonymous with whispers of corruption, ill-gotten wealth, and—most damningly—a halted drug raid that continues to raise eyebrows.
This is the story of what allegedly happened when the Special Task Force (STF) raided Lanza’s residence to find drugs. It’s a tale of political power plays, unfinished investigations, and a man who has switched allegiances more often than a chameleon changes colors.
It all began with whispers in Negombo. Drugs were being smuggled into the country, allegedly arriving by sea from India, with roots stretching back to Pakistan and Afghanistan. The STF, known for its precision and intelligence capabilities, received a tip-off: a stash of drugs was reportedly being stored in the home of none other than Nimal Lanza.
For the STF, this was no petty crime. They don’t waste resources on minor offenses—they focus on dismantling major networks. But just as the raid began to unfold, something extraordinary happened: the operation was abruptly halted.
According to insiders, the raid was called off after a call from the highest levels of power. Then-President Mahinda Rajapaksa allegedly intervened to protect Lanza, travel to Negombo to rescue his one of his loyal allies at the time. Whether this was an act of political loyalty, a calculated move, or something else entirely, remains unclear.
The STF officers, renowned for their independence and professionalism, were reportedly furious. “We had everything ready,” said a source familiar with the operation. “The evidence, the intelligence—it was all there. But we were told to stop. No explanation, no reason, just stop.”
This interference not only tarnished the STF’s reputation but also left unanswered questions about Lanza’s alleged involvement in the drug trade.
The so-called "powder case" has become a symbol of Sri Lanka’s struggles with corruption and impunity. While details remain murky, what’s clear is that the case never reached its logical conclusion. Evidence was reportedly suppressed, and witnesses were silenced.
One senior STF official, who has since retired, holds critical information about the case. “It’s not just about Lanza,” the official said. “It’s about the system. How can we fight crime when politicians are shielded by their connections?”
Nimal Lanza’s rise to power and wealth is a story in itself. From humble beginnings in Negombo, he built a sprawling empire, including hotels, businesses, and real estate.
But questions about the sources of his wealth have persisted. Critics allege that his fortune is tied to illicit activities, including smuggling and political favors. Lanza’s ability to switch allegiances—first with Mahinda Rajapaksa’s SLPP and later with Ranil Wickremesinghe’s UNP—has only added to suspicions that he prioritizes self-preservation over ideology.
Lanza once quipped, “I don’t wear pink shirts anymore; I wear green now,” in reference to his political switch. But for many, this statement symbolized his opportunism rather than a genuine change of heart.
Lanza’s name is reportedly linked to at least 29 investigations, most of which have mysteriously stalled. These include allegations of drug smuggling, corruption, and misuse of public funds.
Sources within the police claim that Lanza used his political connections to influence law enforcement and derail investigations. “Whenever we got close, the orders came from above to back off,” said a senior police officer.
But the question remains: how long can this strategy work? With the NPP government now in power, there are calls to revisit these cases and hold Lanza accountable.
The NPP government, under President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, has a golden opportunity to restore faith in Sri Lanka’s justice system. Reopening the investigations into Nimal Lanza’s alleged crimes would be a strong signal that no one is above the law.
The STF raid on Lanza’s house represents unfinished business—not just for law enforcement but for the entire nation. If the NPP government fails to act, it risks perpetuating the cycle of impunity that has plagued Sri Lanka for decades.
One can almost imagine the scene: STF officers arriving at Lanza’s door, this time with no interference from politicians. “Hi, Nimal,” they might say. “We’re here to talk about that powder case. And this time, no phone calls from your friends in high places.”
For Lanza, the time to rely on political rescue missions is running out. If the investigations are reopened, he’ll need more than connections—he’ll need a solid legal defense. And as one observer noted, “He’d better hire lawyers from Colombo, not Negombo.”
The Nimal Lanza case is about more than one politician—it’s a microcosm of Sri Lanka’s struggles with corruption, political interference, and the rule of law. The halted STF raid is a reminder of the challenges faced by those who try to uphold justice in a system that often protects the powerful.
As the NPP government takes charge, the question is simple: will they have the courage to knock on Nimal Lanza’s door? Will they demand answers about the drugs, the stalled investigations, and the political deals that allowed him to evade accountability?
Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: Sri Lankans are watching. And they’re tired of waiting for justice.
Nimal Lanza has spent years building his empire, switching political allegiances, and dodging allegations. But the halted STF raid, the allegations of drug smuggling, and the 29 pending investigations have left a cloud over his name.
For the NPP government, reopening these cases is not just a matter of justice—it’s a test of their commitment to accountability. And for Lanza, it’s a reminder that no matter how many pink or green shirts he wears, the truth has a way of catching up.
So, Nimal, it’s time to lawyer up. The STF might be knocking sooner than you think.
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by (2025-01-27 18:25:05)
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