Action against diplomat over missing items

Rafik JALALDEEN

The Foreign Ministry will take stern action against the diplomat who removed the items belonging to the owner of his residence in Japan, if proved guilty. Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama addressing the media yesterday said proper action will be taken to protect the Foreign Ministry against the actions of the diplomat concerned.

"This officer was appointed on a contract basis. Personally, I have no idea about his character."

Initial investigation revealed that the piano was given to the Diplomat by the owner of the house. However, it is not proved that the other items were gifts or taken without the knowledge of the landlord.

He said investigations were continuing. If the diplomat violated the law an explanation will be called for and action taken against him under the Penal Code, the Minister said.

The suspect was a Minister Councillor attached to the Sri Lankan Embassy in Japan.