The Colombo Magistrate’s Court has granted bail to former Health Ministry Secretary Janaka Chandragupta, who was arrested by the Bribery Commission over an alleged misappropriation of more than Rs. 305,000.
Colombo Chief Magistrate Thanuja Lakmali Jayatunga delivered the bail order after reviewing submissions made by officials of the Bribery Commission and the defense counsel.
As per the court’s decision, the suspect was released on three personal bail bonds of Rs. 500,000 each. Additionally, the court imposed a travel ban on the suspect and ordered the surrender of his passport.
Officials from the Bribery Commission informed the court that further investigations will be carried out into two bank accounts belonging to the suspect’s wife. They also noted that relevant statements will be recorded during the ongoing inquiry.
Representing the suspect, Attorney-at-Law Nuwan Jayawardena told the court that his client cannot influence any witnesses from the banks, given that the investigations into the said accounts are still underway. He therefore requested that the suspect be released on bail.
After considering all facts presented, the Chief Magistrate granted bail and scheduled the next hearing of the case for November 14.
