A former Basnayake Nilame of a prominent Kovil (Devalaya) in Kandy has been arrested by the Kandy Special Crimes Investigation Division in connection with a multi-million rupee financial fraud.

According to police investigations, the 72-year-old suspect and his son are alleged to have defrauded several individuals of approximately Rs. 180 million (18 Crores) under the guise of business investments. It is reported that the funds were obtained using cheques issued under the name of the former Basnayake Nilame.

While the former official is currently in custody, Kandy Police are conducting further investigations to apprehend his son, who is also implicated in the fraud.