Colombo: Rumors that Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapakse has left the country are intensifying in the midst of civil unrest in Sri Lanka, which is reeling under economic crisis. Videos showing that he left the country on a ship are also circulating on social media.
A video of a Sri Lankan Navy ship rushing to load suitcases has gone viral. In the video, three men hurriedly load suitcases onto the ship SLNS Gajabahu.
News 1 channel reported that Colombo port authorities informed that the crews aboard SLNS Sindurala and SLNS Gajabahu have left the shore. According to the channel report, no more information is available about those who boarded the ships and traveled. It is also reported that Rajapakse moved from his residence to the army headquarters on Friday night.
There are also unconfirmed reports that a motorcade that appears to belong to the president has been spotted at the main international airport. But it is not yet confirmed that Rajapakse has fled.
Footage of protesters celebrating at the President’s official residence is circulating on social media. In the videos, people can be seen swimming in groups in the swimming pool of the residence and people have entered the bedroom and kitchen of the president.