I write with deep concern regarding serious allegations now emerging about human trafficking and abuse of authority linked to the former President of Sri Lanka Boxing, Dian Gomes, in connection with the 2022 Commonwealth Games held in Birmingham, England.
According to information circulating among sports officials and participants, eight athletes and two coaches traveled to England to compete in the boxing events held from July 28 to August 8, 2022. Of those athletes, three Vimukthi Kumara, Sanjeewa Rajakaruna, and Nicalas Vitalis allegedly absconded illegally during the tournament. In addition, another athlete, Ishan Bandara, returned to Sri Lanka after the event but later traveled back to England using the same visa issued for the Commonwealth Games and has reportedly failed to return.
Serious questions arise particularly with regard to Nicalas Vitalis, who competed in the 71 kg category. It has been alleged that he was not eligible to participate in the Commonwealth Games, having failed to meet the required selection criteria. Multiple coaches are reported to have objected to his inclusion, noting that Ariyaratne of the Navy Boxing Club who was ranked first and had fulfilled all qualifications was unjustly excluded. Despite these objections, Dian Gomes allegedly used his sole discretion to include Nicalas Vitalis, reportedly with the expectation of financial or other benefits linked to members of the Tamil diaspora in England.
Further concerns were raised when it was stated that Nicalas Vitalis traveled without sportswear from Sri Lanka, having been assured that all necessary equipment would be provided in England. Reports indicate that clothing bearing symbols associated with the Tamil diaspora was supplied there, which was rejected by the coaching staff and ultimately not used. These events raise troubling questions about external influence and intent.
Additional irregularities have been reported in team selection. Two official selection tournaments were held to determine eligibility for the Commonwealth Games. In the 64 kg category, Sanjeewa Rajakaruna reportedly competed in only one of the two tournaments, while DLPR Kumara of the Navy Boxing Club fulfilled all requirements. Despite this, Sanjeewa Rajakaruna was allegedly taken to England under the authority of Dian Gomes.
There are also allegations that certain boxers deliberately lost their opening bouts in England and subsequently attempted to abscond, suggesting that participation in competition may not have been their primary objective. If true, this points to a coordinated abuse of the international sports system.
Media reports dated 19th October 2025, stated that legal action, including red notices, would be initiated against those who absconded during the Dian Games. Since then, it is alleged that Gomes has sought protection from powerful individuals within the current government to suppress investigations. In particular, claims have surfaced that he is portraying herself as being closely connected to the Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs, Mr. Sunil Kumara Gamage, and the Deputy Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Mr. Chathuranga Abeysinghe.
If true, it would be deeply tragic for Sri Lanka if individuals accused of facilitating human trafficking are shielded due to political influence especially someone who has held the positions of Honorary Consul of Georgia in Sri Lanka and Director of the International Boxing Association (IBA). These allegations have brought immense disrepute to Sri Lankan sport and to the country as a whole.
The public deserves transparency, accountability, and a full, independent investigation. Those responsible, regardless of status or connections, must be held accountable. Further revelations regarding similar alleged incidents are said to exist, and the truth must not be buried.
