Chamara Sampath's Ex-Secretary Remanded, Again

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sumathipala Liyanarachchi, the Former Secretary to former Minister Chamara Sampath Dasanayake, was further remanded until October 9 after being produced before Colombo Chief Magistrate Asanga S. Bodaragama today.

The suspect was arrested and produced before court by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) over allegations that he solicited and received Rs. 8.1 million as a bribe from three phosphate-importing companies.

Presenting facts before court, Bribery Commission investigators stated that the suspect had allegedly facilitated import-related approvals and licences for three selected companies without following proper procedures and had assisted those companies in obtaining the necessary licences required for phosphate imports.

Investigators informed the court that the suspect is accused of soliciting Rs. 8.1 million in bribes in return for providing assistance and influence in securing those approvals and licences.

The Bribery Commission further told court that investigations have revealed information suggesting that individuals attached to the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau, which issued the relevant licences, had also allegedly received payments as bribes.

Investigators informed the court that a further seven suspects are expected to be arrested in connection with the case.

The Bribery Commission requested that the suspect be further remanded, arguing that releasing him on bail at this stage could interfere with ongoing investigations and affect efforts to apprehend the remaining suspects.

After considering the submissions made by investigators, the Chief Magistrate ordered that Sumathipala Liyanarachchi be remanded until October 9.