The government is facing a backlash following the release of a convicted financial fraudster from Anuradhapura Prison under a presidential pardon granted on Vesak Poya Day.

According to a report submitted to the High Court by prison officials, the convict had been released on the religious holiday after being granted a presidential pardon.

Taking this official notification into consideration, the High Court judge ordered that the convict be discharged from Case No. HC/69/2018.

The charges in the case relate to a financial fraud committed between 17 February and 9 June 2014 in Anuradhapura, where the convict misappropriated Rs. 4 million entrusted to him—or placed under his control—by a man named Arun Indika Somaratna for investment in the stock market. The funds were allegedly misused in breach of trust.

Related news: Presidential Pardon for Financial Fraud Convict: Prison Officials Clarify After Public Outrage Against Govt

The Attorney General filed charges against the former financial institution manager under Section 386 of the Penal Code, and he was found guilty. The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) had conducted investigations into the case.

The individual granted the presidential pardon, W. M. Athula Tilakaratna, is reportedly facing over 20 separate cases before the Anuradhapura Magistrate’s Court, along with several others pending at the High Court. All of these cases are said to be linked to financial fraud.

Notably, complainants in these cases include former specialist judicial medical officers of the Anuradhapura Teaching Hospital, as well as doctors, lawyers, and businesspeople.

It has also been reported that Tilakaratna had previously served a prison sentence following a conviction in another financial fraud case.

During the most recent court hearing, Deputy Solicitor General Mahen de Silva appeared for the prosecution alongside CID officers, while Tilakaratna was represented by Attorney-at-Law Suranga Mohotty.