Sri Lanka, Oct. 31 -- The sale of state-owned lands in Sigiriya tourist zone to millionaire businessmen through forged documents has turned into an organised racket. It has been revealed that some officials engaged in land administration are leading this operation. Among them are certain Grama Niladhari and Land Officers who are involved in land brokering. They facilitate the sale of state lands and operate within a network of interconnected corrupt officials. It is regrettable that, in some cases, even Divisional Secretaries have become unwitting participants. Lands issued under grants to members of the 'farmer' class' under the Land Development Ordinance are being sold in this manner through the preparation of forged documents.

State o...