Matara, Sri Lanka – Additional Solicitor General Dileepa Peiris has strongly condemned the conduct of suspended Inspector General of Police (IGP) Deshabandu Tennakoon, who appeared before the Matara Magistrate’s Court despite an open warrant issued for his arrest.
Peiris notably likened Tennakoon to a leader of an organized crime gang, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Tennakoon, who had reportedly been in hiding for 20 days, appeared in court this morning with a motion. Matara Magistrate Aruna Buddhadasa subsequently ordered his remand until tomorrow (20).
Defense’s Argument for Bail
During the legal proceedings, President’s Counsel Shanaka Ranasinghe, representing Tennakoon, was the first to address the court.
“At this point, the court must determine whether to grant bail. A suspect can be denied bail only if it is proven that they have evaded court proceedings or attempted to influence witnesses by not cooperating with investigations,” Ranasinghe argued.
He further stated, “After the Court of Appeal rejected his legal relief, he has presented himself at the first available opportunity. Despite being suspended by a Supreme Court order, he remains the IGP of Sri Lanka. As IGP, he waged a war against the underworld and the drug network in the name of justice, which has led to threats against his life. If he is remanded, his safety could be compromised. Therefore, I request the court to grant my client bail under any conditions.”
Prosecution’s Criticism of Tennakoon’s Appearance
Countering the defense’s argument, Additional Solicitor General Dileepa Peiris, appearing on behalf of the Attorney General, strongly criticized the manner in which Tennakoon arrived at court.
“Your Honor, this morning I was informed that a suspect with an active open warrant arrived at court in a Mercedes-Benz, dressed in a suit and tie, and was seated in the courtroom. That is why I am here on behalf of the Attorney General,” Peiris remarked.
He went on to say, “I am astonished that a suspect with an open warrant was allowed to sit freely in the courtroom instead of being held in custody. Your Honor, how can someone evade arrest for 20 days, then walk into court as if nothing happened? He is no different from a fugitive who hides from the law.”
Peiris further accused Tennakoon of hypocrisy, stating, “As IGP, he once claimed that ‘lawyers protect criminals.’ Yet today, he has come to court surrounded by lawyers. This case is not just about the shooting at the W15 Hotel—this is about the inevitable consequences of his own actions. It is karma catching up with him.”
Allegations of Undisclosed Wealth and Illicit Possessions
The prosecution also raised concerns over Tennakoon’s undisclosed assets and alleged illicit possessions. Peiris informed the court about the findings from a search of the suspect’s residence.
“Your Honor, ever since your court issued an order on the 27th of last month, an extensive search operation was launched—almost as if looking for Prabhakaran himself. Yesterday, during a search of his house, 795 bottles of imported liquor were discovered. In a country where government employees are prohibited from receiving gifts, his residence contained an excessive stock of alcohol, including over a hundred hoppers alone. The value of these bottles amounts to crores. His house is not a residence—it is practically a distillery,” Peiris alleged.
He further stated, “Despite claiming to own no registered property—not even a bicycle—it has now been revealed that he unofficially possesses eight houses. This is why I compared him to an organized crime leader.”
The case continues, with further legal proceedings scheduled for tomorrow.
