The Kuliyapitiya Magistrate’s Court has sentenced Rantetige Nishshanka Priyadarshana, alias ‘Dubai Sudda’, to five years’ imprisonment, suspended, and imposed a fine of Rs. 100,000 for operating an overseas employment racket in Dubai using tourist visas.
The order was delivered yesterday (13) when the court gave its verdict in a case filed against the accused by the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE).
The court also ordered him to pay Rs. 700,000 in compensation to the aggrieved complainants and directed that the amount be deposited with the court.
The arrest followed a complaint lodged with the Bureau by a resident of the Giriulla area, who alleged that the accused had taken Rs. 700,000 by promising to secure him employment in Dubai but had failed to provide the promised job.
The accused had returned to Sri Lanka after travelling overseas.
Acting on information that he was staying in the Kaduwela area, investigating officers attempted to arrest him.
He was apprehended when he tried to evade the officers and flee in his private vehicle.
The accused is a member of the Bulathsinhala Pradeshiya Sabha representing the United National Party (UNP). He had allegedly operated the racket using social media.
Similar cases relating to alleged financial fraud involving promises of overseas employment have also been filed against him before the Welisara and Kaduwela courts.
The Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment has reiterated its warning to the public to remain vigilant against fraudsters who collect money by promising overseas employment through tourist visas.
The Bureau has urged the public to report any such complaints by calling its hotline on 1989 or 011 288 2229.