The permit bearing the No. 01-00604007 has been issued to a businessman in the Boralesgamuwa area, reports add.

The FL3 type permit allows this businessman to produce, import and distribute alcohol.

It is reported that the Presidential Secretariat had formally inquired from the Excise commissioner as to what grounds this permit was granted on.

It is said that President Maithripala Sirisena is directly involved in the probe with regard to this.

Minister's influence

Meanwhile, 'Sri Lanka Mirror' learns that the permit was issued on the influence of a powerful minister.

We learn that the commissioner had made a small note before issuing the permit, noting that he is only doing so due to the influence of the relevant minister.