Basil turns back after trying to fly out of country

Former Minister Basil Rajapaksa has attempted to leave the country through the Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake early this morning (July 12), Ada Derana learns.

It is reported that Rajapaksa’s attempt was hampered after he was met with a strong protest at the airport and the immigration officers refused to serve him at the VIP departure lounge.

The president of Immigration and Emigration Officers’ Association K.A.A.S Kanugala said its members attached to the Silk Route Lounge, which provides dedicated services to the VIPs at the airport, withdrew from their duties from midnight yesterday.

The decision was taken due to concerns regarding the security of immigration officers serving at the lounge.

Kanugala told Reuters that the immigration officers are under tremendous pressure to not allow top-level figures to leave the country, given the ongoing crisis situation.

“We are concerned for our security. So, until this issue is resolved, the immigration officials working at the VIP lounge decided to withdraw their services,” he said further.