It is reported that former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled the country in July and returned to Sri Lanka a few moments ago on a Singapore Airlines flight.
Former President Gotabhaya Rajapaksa, who fled the country due to public opposition, returned to the island amid tight security after hiding in 3 countries.
Rajapaksa reached the Bandaranaike International Airport a few moments ago amid tight security. Rajapakse resides in a government bungalow near Wijerama Mawatha in Colombo and a large security force is to be appointed for the security of the area.
Several ministers visited the BIA to welcome the former president.
Rajapaksa stepped down as president in July amid large-scale protests calling for his resignation as Sri Lanka plunged into its worst economic crisis ever.
He fled to the Maldives on an Air Force flight and later entered Singapore on a medical visa, which was extended twice.
After the Singapore government failed to extend it for a third time, Rajapaksa left for Thailand with his wife, where he was advised to stay in his hotel for security reasons.
With his movements restricted, Rajapaksa decided to return to Sri Lanka and will remain here until the American government approves his application for a USA Green Card.
As a former president, Rajapaksa will be given all the privileges and extra security will be provided. He resides in the bungalow allotted to the government.