The Colombo Magistrate’s Court has ordered the release on bail of former Health Ministry Secretary Janaka Chandragupta, who was previously remanded in connection with the alleged misappropriation of over Rs. 35 million.

The order was issued by Colombo Chief Magistrate Thanuja Lakmali Jayatunga after considering submissions made by officials of the Bribery Commission and state counsels.

Accordingly, the suspect was released on three personal bails of Rs. 500,000 each. The Magistrate also imposed a travel ban on the suspect and directed that his passport be surrendered to the court.

Bribery Commission officials informed the court that further investigations are underway regarding two bank accounts belonging to the suspect’s wife in connection with this case. They noted that statements are expected to be recorded in this regard.

Appearing on behalf of the suspect, Attorney-at-Law Nuwan Jayawardena told the court that his client had no means or intention to interfere with the bank witnesses, as the remaining investigations pertain only to bank accounts.

Taking into account the submissions, the Magistrate ordered that the suspect be released on bail and scheduled the next hearing for 14 November.