The Sri Lankan government is examining alternative legal avenues to secure the return of former Central Bank Governor Arjuna Mahendran, as existing laws in Singapore prevent his extradition, Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananda Wijepala has said.
Speaking to the state‑owned newspaper Dinamina, Wijepala stated that Mahendran—now a Singaporean citizen—was reportedly living under a changed name, Harjan Alexander, making the extradition process more complex. According to the minister, Singaporean law does not permit the extradition of its own citizens to Sri Lanka.
However, Mahendran has categorically denied the allegation that he changed his name. Reports indicate that he has formally notified the Sri Lankan government through a letter, rejecting claims that he is using the name “Harjan Alexander.”
New Revelations on Bond Scam Figure’s Political Links
Meanwhile, investigations conducted by a political correspondent have revealed that a powerful figure linked to the controversial Central Bank bond scam is now operating as a close associate of Anura and is currently serving as a key economic advisor to the NPP government.
This individual was also identified by Mahendran during testimony given at the time of the bond scandal as the person who instructed him regarding changes to bond allocations.
Background
The Central Bank bond scam remains one of the most contentious financial scandals in recent Sri Lankan history, with ongoing legal proceedings and political ramifications. The government’s renewed efforts to pursue Mahendran come amid heightened public scrutiny and calls for accountability.
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