Former Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa was transferred to National Hospital a short while ago.

He was admitted to Prison Hospital after being remanded last night. However, Rajapaksa requested to be transferred to the paying wards of the National Hospital.

His lawyers had requested bail on exceptional cases since he was under medical treatment when he was produced before the Kaduwela Magistrate last night. However, the Magistrate denied bail.

Rajapaksa is charged under the Offences Against Public Property Act and bail is not possible for charges under the Act.

Basil Rajapaksa was remanded until May 5.