'Podi Lassie' further remanded; AGs Dept. to indict suspect for making death threats

Galle Chief Magistrate Harshana Kekunawela ordered for the suspect to be remanded until the 09th of October.

Deputy Solicitor General Dileepa Peiris produced a report containing the summary of the statements obtained from the suspect by investigators who visited the Boossa Prison on the 18th of September, following a court order.

DSG Dileepa Peiris said the suspect had told investigators he did not make any threat and only spoke of the issues faced in prison.

Dharmakeerthige Tharaka Perera Wijesekera also known as 'Kosgoda Tharaka', the first suspect in the case currently remains in detention with the Criminal Investigations Department based on detention orders.

Deputy Solicitor General Dileepa Peiris said the suspect (Kosgoda Thara) in detention had stated, when drug trafficker 'Makandure Madush' was in Dubai, a Prison Commissioner had visited him and obtained various facilities.

DSG Dileepa Peiris therefore, requested court to issue an order to record statements from the respective Prison Commissioner and drug trafficker 'Makandure Madush', on the claims made by 'Kosgoda Tharaka'.

When the Chief Magistrate asked the suspect who was the box if he had legal representation, the suspect (Podi Lassie) after seeking permission to make a statement said he did not make a threat and only spoke of the issues faced in prison.

The Chief Magistrate said the same was recorded in the suspect's statements and said it is not possible to remain without posting bail.

DSG Dileepa Peiris said this is a process followed by such suspects adding their associates purposely get imprisoned for minor crimes in order to provide protection to them (suspects) in prison.

DSG Dileepa Peiris further noted the suspects had gathered sufficient stocks of food to last several days from the prison cafeteria and then commenced the hunger strike.

If such incidents are taking place in prison, officials must report it to court without delay, argued DSG Dileepa Peiris.

Deputy Solicitor General Dileepa Peiris said a large haul of weapons belonging to the first suspect (Kosgoda Tharaka) was discovered from Homagama and added, he requested protection for the general public who attend court session and not for special protection for the suspects.

Indictments will be filed against the suspects with the High Court, said Deputy Solicitor General Dileepa Peiris.