Rs. 660m deposit for DPJ Tower rental still not received: Agriculture Ministry

By Chaturanga Pradeep Samarawickrama   

Agriculture Ministry Secretary M. Wickramasinghe yesterday claimed that the Rs. 660 million deposit made for renting the DPJ Tower in Rajagiriya during the Yahapalana period has not yet been received.   

The DPJ Tower is owned by veteran actress Sabeetha Perera’s husband, Upali Jayasinghe. The building was rented by the Agriculture Ministry during the Yahapalana period.   

Addressing the media, the Secretary said that there have been some irregularities in the Agriculture Ministry during previous governments, and investigations are ongoing.   

He also disclosed information regarding the deposit for a building previously rented by the Agriculture Ministry.   

“The Agriculture Ministry has uncovered some irregularities. Recently, the Ministry rented a building, and a deposit of Rs. 660 million was made. A bond was supposed to be obtained from a bank, but it was not. Currently, the building has been handed over, but the deposit has not been received yet,” the Secretary said.   

He added that further legal proceedings will be initiated according to the instructions of the Attorney General.