Former Minister Lohan Ratwatte has been further remanded until December 2, while his wife, Shashi Prabha Ratwatte, remains in custody until November 22, following their appearance before the Nugegoda Magistrate’s Court today.

The couple was arrested in connection with the illegal use of a luxury car, which was allegedly imported and assembled without proper authorization in Sri Lanka. The car was discovered by police during an inspection of a three-story house in Embuldeniya, Mirihana, owned by Shashi Prabha Ratwatte. Authorities had received a tip-off about the car, which was found without number plates.

Both Lohan and Shashi Ratwatte claimed the vehicle had been brought to the house by Ratwatte's private secretary, who was found dead from gunshot wounds in Katugastota, Kandy, earlier this year. The couple also stated that Ratwatte’s mother-in-law resides at the property.

The Court of Appeal had set November 19 for the consideration of a petition filed by Lohan Ratwatte seeking bail. The court instructed that notices be issued to the relevant parties, including the Inspector General of Police, to present their arguments.