Former Health Ministry Secretary Chandragupta granted bail

Former Secretary to the Health Ministry, Janaka Chandragupta, who had been remanded following arrest by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) over allegations of unlawfully amassing over Rs. 35 million in assets, has been granted bail by the Colombo Magistrate’s Court.

Colombo Chief Magistrate Thanuja Lakmali Jayatunga issued this order after considering the facts presented by Bribery Commission officials and defence lawyers.

Accordingly, the Chief Magistrate ordered that the suspect be released on three surety bails of Rs. 5 million each. The Magistrate also imposed a travel ban on the suspect and ordered to handover their passports to the court.

Furthermore, officials of the Bribery Commission, presenting facts before the court, stated that they are conducting further investigations into two bank accounts belonging to the suspect’s wife in connection with this case. They also noted that statements will be recorded in this regard.

Attorney-at-Law Nuwan Jayawardena, who appeared on behalf of the suspect, informed the court that since the remaining investigation relates to bank accounts, his client has no ability to influence any witnesses. Accordingly, the lawyer requested the court to release the suspect on bail.

After considering the facts presented, the Chief Magistrate ordered the suspect to be released on bail and set the next hearing date for November 14.