Tax Official Released on Bail Over Rs. 50,000 Bribe

COLOMBO (News 1st); Deputy Commissioner of the Inland Revenue Department, K.C.K. Kumara, who was remanded over serious bribery allegations, was granted bail by Colombo Additional Magistrate Harshana Kekunawela.

The suspect had been in remand custody in connection with a case involving the alleged acceptance of a bribe of Rs. 50,000 from a businessman. The bribe was reportedly solicited to facilitate the removal of a tax liability amounting to Rs. 1.1 million owed to the Inland Revenue Department.

Magistrate Kekunawela granted bail under two personal sureties of Rs. 1 million each. The court also issued a stern warning to the suspect, instructing him not to interfere with the ongoing investigations.

During today’s hearing, investigating officers submitted a progress report to the court, stating that inquiries were still incomplete and requested that the suspect be further remanded. 

However, the defense counsel argued that the Chief Magistrate had previously directed investigators to conclude the inquiry promptly, and therefore requested bail under suitable conditions.

After considering the submissions, the Additional Magistrate ordered the suspect’s release on bail.