Former Minister Rajitha Senaratne has filed an anticipatory bail application before the Colombo Magistrate’s Court, seeking his release on bail prior to any potential arrest by the Bribery Commission. The application is in relation to an investigation into allegations that the government incurred a financial loss of over Rs. 20 million through the transfer of a sand mining project at the Kirinda Fisheries Harbour to a Korean company.
After considering the petition, Colombo Chief Magistrate Thanuja Lakmali Jayatunga today issued a notice to the Bribery Commission, requiring it to present its submissions to court on the 18th of July.
President’s Counsel Maithri Gunaratne, appearing for the former minister, stated that Rajitha Senaratne, who has rendered significant service to the fisheries sector, is scheduled to be arrested over what is essentially a civil matter.
He further explained that the investigation relates to the cleaning of the Kirinda Fisheries Harbour, and that there is already a pending case before the Colombo Commercial High Court concerning the non-payment by the foreign company after using a sand dredger to clean the harbour.
The lawyer requested that notice be issued to the Bribery Commission, as it is preparing to arrest his client in connection with an ongoing civil dispute.
After considering the submissions, the Chief Magistrate ordered the Director General of the Bribery Commission to appear in court on the 18th of July and provide evidence regarding the incident.
The case will be recalled on July 18.
