A group of Opposition MPs in Sri Lanka have requested the speaker of parliament to take disciplinary action against fellow MP Ali Sabri Raheem, who was earlier detained for illegally carrying 3.5 kg of gold and over 90 mobile phones.

The MPs claim that the Puttlam District lawmaker had used his parliamentary privileges and diplomatic passport to smuggle the goods via the via lounge of the Katunayake Airport.

They also noted that the parliament approved “Code of Conduct” for Members of Parliament was violated by the conduct of Ali Sabri Raheem.

MP Ali Sabri Raheem who was detained by Sri Lanka Customs for illegally carrying gold and mobile phones was released, and he visited parliament on Wednesday (24) for a crucial legislative vote.

The MP who previously extended his support to the government, voted against the resolution moved by the government.

Speaking EXCLUSIVELY to News 1st that MP said that he saw nothing wrong with Janaka Ratnayake, the Chairman of the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka, but he voted against the resolution as the government did not step into clear him with regard to his detention by Sri Lanka Customs.

"I faced an incident recently. I did nothing wrong. The goods were in the possession of an associate. He was detained, but they told the media that it was me. I told President's Secretary Saman Ekanayake, and the Prime Minister. They said they will look into it, but justice was not served. I did nothing wrong, but I came out after paying a fine of Rs. 7.5 Million. Therefore, I voted against the government," he explained.

"The President's Secretary. I spoke to him and explained that I did not carry the goods, and it was one of my associates. He packed the bag, and he put the goods in both our bags. He committed the offense and I was at fault. If such injustice takes place when I am with the government, and if they don't help me, there is no point in being with the government. That is why I voted against the government," he further told News 1st's parliament correspondent. 

Sri Lankan Parliamentarian Ali Sabri Raheem who was detained by customs was fined Rs. 7.5 Million for the possession of gold and several other items.

Puttlam District MP Ali Sabri Raheem was detained by Sri Lanka Customs on Tuesday (23) morning for the possession of Gold Biscuits.

Ali Sabri Raheem was detained by Sri Lanka Customs at the Katunayake Airport upon arriving from Dubai on Tuesday (23) morning.

He was detained for the possession of 3.5 kg of Gold Biscuits valued at over Rs. 70 Million. In addition, 91 mobile phones were also found in his possession.

Acting Finance Minister Dr. Ranjith Siyambalapitiya told News 1st that the 3.5 kg of gold and the mobile phones were confiscated by the state. 

The Parliamentarian was detained by Customs Officers when he was at the VIP lounge at the Katunayake Airport.