• More than five hour long statements were recorded from them by the CID

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya  

The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) has recorded statements from former Deputy Minister and veteran actor Jeewan Kumarathunga, his wife Sherin Kumaratunga and popular artist Sangeetha Weeraratne in connection with their alleged involvement with the owner of Thico Group (Pvt) Ltd Thilini Priyamali.  

Police Spokesman SSP Nihal Thalduwa said Jeewan Kumarathunga and his wife Sherin were summoned by the CID on Saturday and statements were recorded while a statement was also recorded from Sangeetha Weeraratne on Monday.  

It was reported that more than five hour long statements were recorded from them by the CID.  
They were reportedly questioned over their businesses and other involvements with Priyamali, including her funding of the film ‘Jeeva’ directed by Jeewan Kumarathunga.  

Thilini has allegedly produced the ‘Jeeva’ film using Sangeetha and Jeewan as the main characters and a Muhurat festival was also held in connection with it.   

Investigations are underway to determine whether the expenses paid to the artistes were borne by the fraudulently earned monies by Thilini Priyamali.  

Earlier, the CID also recorded statements from several other actors including Semini Iddamalgoda, Purnika Peiris and Peshala Manoj over their alleged involvment with Thilini.