No AGs Dept. representation in Shani Abeyesekera case; Defence Counsel concerned

Shani Abeysekera & the Sub-Inspector are charged with providing false evidence to a judicial matter by producing firearms with regard to a case filed against Ex-DIG Vass Gunawardena in 2014.

ASP Neville De Silva, appearing for the Colombo Crimes Division said Nishantha De Silva, who used to serve at the CID is the third suspect in the matter.

Citing Nishantha De Silva had fled the country, ASP Silva requested court to issue a warrant against him.

However, the Chief Magistrate said in order to issue such a warrant, a report from the Controller of Immigration and Emigration must be called for and court should be satisfied with the said report.

Notably, there was no representation from the Attorney General's Department today as well, with regard to the case.

President's Counsel Wasantha Nawaratne Bandara appearing for Shani Abeysekera said it is disappointing to note the silence maintained by the AGs Department, at a time when a case file on the matter exists.

Counsel Chaminda Athukorala appearing for the second suspect said the matter is related to a judicial process that took place 06 years ago.

Counsel said the conduct on a matter which took place 06 years ago, poses a risk on detectives, Counsel from the AGs Department as well as decisions delivered by court.

President's Counsel Wasantha Nawaratne Bandara raised concerns with protection provided to a Former Director of the Criminal Investigations Department in prison.

The Magistrate said an order to that effect cannot be made, however, attention can be drawn towards providing necessary security for the protection of life.