Colombo court orders CID to expedite Ella Odyssey probe

By Bhagya Silva

Colombo, April 24 (Daily Mirror) - The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) today informed the Colombo Chief Magistrate’s Court that it is closely analyzing telephone records and financial transactions as part of ongoing investigations into the alleged Ella Odyssey ticket reselling scam.

The CID stated that inquiries are underway to determine whether any station masters or railway department officials were involved in facilitating the resale of train tickets at inflated prices, particularly to foreign tourists. The process involved the original online bookings being canceled and tickets reissued under new names through railway station systems a step that could not be done without internal assistance, the CID emphasized.

Investigators also revealed that the suspects’ bank accounts are under scrutiny to map out the flow of funds and uncover any potential organized network operating behind the scenes. The probe continues under the Penal Code and the Computer Crimes Act.

The court directed the CID to expedite the investigation and report further progress at the next hearing.

The four suspects, Pradeep Kariyawasam, Chaminda Kumara, Thilina Lakmal and Madushka Dulan  who were previously arrested in connection with the scam are currently on bail.