Sampath Manamperi Ready To Surrender

COLOMBO (News 1st); Legal counsel representing former Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) local government candidate Sampath Manamperi informed the Court of Appeal today (5) that their client is prepared to surrender to the Magistrate’s Court in connection with the recent raid in Middeniya.

This announcement was made during the hearing of a writ petition filed by Manamperi’s legal team, which was taken up before a bench comprising Justices Rohantha Abeysooriya and Priyantha Fernando.

The petitioner's counsel stated that the police are currently seeking to arrest Manamperi in relation to the discovery of two containers allegedly containing chemical substances used in the production of crystal methamphetamine ("ice") in the Middeniya area.

The counsel further revealed that Manamperi’s brother, Piyal Manamperi, has already been arrested and held under a detention order, and later remanded while their 78-year-old father has been released on bail.

It was also alleged that Piyal Manamperi was subjected to severe physical abuse while in custody.

The counsel emphasized that Sampath Manamperi is willing to fully cooperate with the investigation and surrender to the appropriate Magistrate’s Court. 

However, there are concerns that he may be subjected to similar mistreatment following his arrest.

The counsel assured the court that his client is ready to disclose all relevant information to the authorities.

After considering the submissions, the Court of Appeal directed the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to take all necessary measures to ensure the safety of Sampath Manamperi during the investigation process.

The court also instructed the IGP to inform the investigating officers under his command to guarantee the petitioner’s protection.

The next hearing on the petition has been scheduled for October 16.