10 September 2024 08:37 am Views - 7943
An investigation has been launched by the Sri Lanka Army following Officer Cadet Aneek's disappearance in mid-August.
Aneek, who underwent an intensive 44-week training programme, was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant during the Sovereign’s Parade on August 9, a key ceremonial event marking the end of training for officer cadets.
Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to the UK, Rohitha Bogollagama also attended the ceremony to personally congratulate Aneek.
After vacating the academy on August 9, Aneek was scheduled to return to Sri Lanka. However, he missed his scheduled flight back to Sri Lanka the next day.
When the Sri Lankan High Commission offered transport to the airport, Aneek reportedly declined, saying he would make his own arrangements.
Sri Lanka Army Spokesman Major General K.A.N. Rasika Kumara said that there is still no information regarding Aneek's whereabouts.
He said they have informed the UK's Ministry of Defence about the disappearance, and they are investigating the matter.
It was reported that several Aneek’s relatives, who reside in the UK, were present at his Commissioning Ceremony, but there have been no updates regarding his location.
When asked whether this incident could affect Sri Lanka’s participation in future international military training programmes, the spokesman acknowledged that such incidents might have implications for similar opportunities in the future.