The Colombo Magistrate’s Court today (22) ordered that former State Minister Shasheendra Rajapaksa, who is currently in remand following his arrest by the Bribery Commission on allegations of corruption, remain in custody until 30 September.

The order was issued by Colombo Chief Magistrate Asanka S. Bodaragama after rejecting his bail application.

Rajapaksa is accused of misusing his official powers to obtain a sum of Rs. 8,850,000 in compensation related to property in Sewanagala, Kiriibbanwewa, belonging to the Mahaweli Development Authority. The property, including an unauthorised building, had been damaged during protests on 9 May 2022. The alleged actions are being investigated as acts of “corruption” and criminal misuse of public property under the Public Property Act.

Speaking on behalf of the suspect, Presidential Counsel Anuja Premaratne informed the court that Rajapaksa’s health requires medical attention. Accordingly, the magistrate instructed prison authorities to ensure the suspect receives the necessary medical treatment while in custody.