Governor Hanif Yusoof at the Centre of Port Container Controversy
Western Province Governor Hanif Yusoof has found himself embroiled in a major controversy following allegations that he was involved in the unauthorized release of 323 containers from the Colombo Port without proper inspection. Facing mounting accusations on social media and from political opponents, Yusoof has turned to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), urging a formal inquiry to clear his name.
A Storm of Allegations
Over the past few days, claims began circulating that hundreds of containers, allegedly carrying valuable goods such as gold, weapons, or narcotics, were released without customs inspection—an act that could have serious implications for national security and law enforcement. Despite a lack of tangible evidence linking Yusoof to the incident, political figures and online commentators quickly pointed fingers at the Governor.
Speaking to News 1st, Yusoof vehemently denied the accusations, calling them “malicious and fabricated.”
“I have been bombarded with untruths, malicious social media posts, and statements from politicians who have not even been elected by the people,” he stated.
Declaring his commitment to the province, he added:
“I wish the CID would investigate this speedily and clear my name, bringing sanity back to what it was before. I’m here to serve. I’m here to do the right things. I want to make the Western Province a clean, safe, efficient province.”
Customs and Expolanka Deny Involvement
As speculation spread, Sri Lanka Customs and Expolanka, a prominent logistics company, moved swiftly to distance themselves from the controversy. In an official statement, Expolanka clarified that it only provides freight and logistics services and does not act as an importer. The company denied having any role in the clearance of the 323 containers in question.
“No company of Expolanka or its subsidiaries have provided freight and logistics services or customs clearance of any of the alleged 323 containers said to be released by Sri Lanka Customs without inspection,” the statement read.
Sri Lanka Customs also dismissed the allegations, confirming that all proper procedures were followed.
Government Strikes Back
Amid growing political tension, Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports, and Civil Aviation, Bimal Rathnayake, defended the government against what he called baseless allegations from the opposition.
During an inspection tour of the National Transport Medical Institute in Nugegoda, Rathnayake accused opposition figures of fabricating the scandal to divert attention from deeper issues.
“Thieves from both sides have come together. These are well-known issues in this country,” the Minister remarked.
He insisted that if there was credible evidence of wrongdoing, formal complaints should have been filed instead of “spreading rumors to mislead the public.” Rathnayake specifically called out Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) leader Sajith Premadasa, urging him to take legal action rather than engaging in political slander.
Political Weapon or Genuine Scandal?
The unfolding controversy raises crucial questions:
Is this an orchestrated political attack aimed at damaging the reputation of Governor Yusoof and the government?
Or does it hint at deeper corruption within the customs and port operations that needs further scrutiny?
With the CID now involved, the coming days will determine whether these allegations hold weight or if this is simply another episode of political mudslinging. As Sri Lanka grapples with economic recovery and governance challenges, transparency and accountability in such cases remain more critical than ever.
For now, the Governor maintains his innocence—insisting that truth will prevail. The public, however, will be watching closely to see how this high-profile case unfolds.
