A specialist neurosurgeon at Sri Jayewardenepura Hospital has been accused of selling surgical equipment to around 300 patients at inflated prices, including performing surgeries on deceased individuals, according to the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC).
It was revealed in court that the doctor sold a surgical item worth Rs. 50,000 for Rs. 175,000 through her private institution. Colombo Chief Magistrate Thanuja Lakmali Jayatunga was told that the doctor bypassed hospital procurement processes, causing losses of over Rs. 300 million to patients by making them buy surgical supplies privately.
CIABOC also revealed that 77 patients have already suffered losses due to this malpractice, while 92 others have lodged complaints via phone. Three suspects, including the doctor, are currently in remand custody as investigations continue.
