The National People’s Power (NPP) party faces allegations that two of its MPs attempted to extort money. A video tied to these accusations has ignited widespread controversy on social media. Meanwhile, supporters of the opposition accuse ruling party members of inciting unrest and mobilizing crowds against legitimately elected public representatives.
On December 30, MPs Vijitha Sirisena Basnayake (Kurunegala District) and Ajith Gihan (Puttalam District) were accused of attempting to extort money from a private garment factory located in Bingiriya-Wilaththawa.
A video, reportedly showing the two MPs being confronted near the factory gates, was shared on the official Facebook account of NPP MP Nalin Bandara. The post described the incident as follows: “An incident involving MP Bingiriya organizer Vijitha Sirisena Basnayake at Benji Garment Factory in Bingiriya while leaving the premises. Shared for public awareness.”
The footage, which also alleges that ruling party MPs attempted to solicit bribes, casts a shadow over the NPP’s significant electoral win as a force against corruption.
In the video, individuals are seen accusing the two MPs of extortion. One person can be heard stating, “The MP came here to extort money from the factory.” This incident marks the first public extortion allegation against sitting MPs of the current government, sparking heated debates across social media platforms.
Later, MP Vijitha Sirisena Basnayake issued a statement denying the allegations but offered no detailed rebuttal. The video shows protestors blocking a vehicle bearing a “Parliament MP” badge while hurling verbal abuse and attacking another vehicle. A voice in the video can be heard urging restraint, saying, “Don’t resort to violence; issues cannot be resolved through aggression.” Several police officers appear at the scene but seem unable to control the situation.
Why Did the MPs Visit the Garment Factory?
According to MP Vijitha Sirisena Basnayake, the visit was a pre-planned discussion with the factory management to address complaints from the local community about transportation issues. However, as they were leaving, a group of protestors confronted them aggressively, verbally abusing and physically attacking the MP and his vehicle.
Basnayake alleged that one individual grabbed him by his shirt and attempted to pull him out of the vehicle while others caused damage to the car. He claimed that the police officers present at the scene failed to manage the situation effectively. The MP further accused rival politicians of orchestrating the protest to exploit the incident for political gain.
One Suspect Arrested
Following a complaint by MP Vijitha Sirisena Basnayake to Kuliyapitiya Senior Police Officer Mahesh Kumarasinghe, police have initiated investigations. On December 30, one suspect was arrested, and efforts are underway to apprehend eight more suspects believed to be involved, according to Police Media Spokesperson SSP Buddhika Manathunga.
