Sri Lanka is set to request Interpol red notices for the apprehension of athletes who absconded from the 2022 Commonwealth Games village in Birmingham and did not return home, as disclosed in court. The Colombo Chief Magistrate’s Court has placed travel restrictions on 10 athletes suspected of residing unlawfully in the United Kingdom. The Sports Ministry’s Offences Prevention Unit reported that these athletes’ disappearance has led to a financial loss of approximately 50 million Sri Lankan rupees for the government.
Police Inspector Supun Vidanage informed the court on Friday that the Sri Lankan group at the 2022 Games comprised 116 athletes, 28 training officials, 11 medical staff, and 23 representatives from Boxing, Wrestling, Judo, and Volleyball. Among them, nine athletes, a manager, and a sports photographer failed to come back to Sri Lanka post the event. Vidanage mentioned that the ministry will promptly pursue Interpol red notices for these individuals. He later stated that this court action initiates the investigation process, emphasizing the necessity for local arrest warrants before seeking international arrest notices via Interpol.
During the 2022 Birmingham Games, Sri Lanka secured one silver and one bronze medal, achieving the 31st position in the overall medal rankings. The Games took place from late July to mid-August 2022, coinciding with Sri Lanka’s severe economic turmoil, leading to a declaration of bankruptcy due to defaulting on external debt obligations. Notably, a specialized police unit was established in 2019 under the Prevention of Offences Relating to Sports Act.