Alleged Swiss employee abduction, ploy to tarnish President's image : Foreign Minister

The Foreign Ministry today (Dec 4) described the alleged abduction of a Swiss Embassy employee as a ploy to tarnish the image of newly-elected President Gotabaya Rajapaksa.

"We feel this is another step of misinformation, spreading falsehood, and throwing mud at the political leadership of the country," Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena told a news conference at the Foreign Relations Ministry.

His remarks came after the Swiss government and its Embassy in Colombo said a local female employee had been abducted on November 25 and forced to disclose "embassy-related information".

"Her protection has been guaranteed. Her family's protection has been guaranteed. Our Police have taken all necessary steps to give security to the people concerned," Gunawardena asserted.

Sri Lankan authorities have responded to the incident stating that the timeline of incidents as provided by the Swiss Embassy, and as uncovered during investigations do not tally.

“The investigation also needs a statement or comment from the so-called victim. Up to now, this has not been given by the victim,” the Foreign Minister observed.

He called on the Swiss Embassy to support the investigation by ensuring that the allegedly abducted employee provides a statement to the Criminal Investigation Department.

Both the Swiss Embassy and its government have stated the employee is unable to do so due to a deteriorating health condition.

The Foreign Minister said the government responding to requests made by Swiss Authorities to fly the alleged victim to Switzerland for medical treatment through an air ambulance, had advised to “follow the normal procedure” adopted by embassies in sending their employees abroad.

The Colombo Magistrate's Court considering a request by investigators yesterday imposed a travel ban on the alleged victim to prevent her from leaving the country until December 9.