Rajitha Gets Bail Over Fisheries Project Scandal: Court Imposes Travel Ban

COLOMBO (News 1st);l Former Fisheries Minister Rajitha Senaratne was released on bail today (9) by Colombo Chief Magistrate Asanga S. Bodaragama, following his arrest in connection with a controversial sand excavation project at the Kirinda Fisheries Harbour.

The bail was granted under a cash bail of Rs. 50,000 and three personal sureties of Rs. 2 million each. The Magistrate also issued an order prohibiting Senaratne from traveling overseas.

The arrest related to allegations that Senaratne approved a project involving a Korean company, which reportedly caused a loss exceeding Rs. 20 million to the government. A warrant had been issued in connection with the case.

On August 29, Senaratne was remanded by the High Court after appearing in a separate case. The High Court Judge directed that he be presented before the Colombo Magistrate’s Court, leading to Tuesday’s (9) proceedings.

Appearing on behalf of the Bribery Commission, Assistant Director of Legal Affairs Sulochana Hettiarachchi informed the court that Senaratne had provided a statement on September 3 regarding the incident.

According to that statement, following the approval of the project, Senaratne and several family members had traveled to South Korea with the support of the Korean company.

Hettiarachchi emphasized that this trip must be investigated and that statements should be obtained from the relatives who participated.

She also noted that statements from government officials who served in the Fisheries Corporation at the time were necessary.

Hettiarachchi requested that Senaratne be remanded again, citing concerns that he might influence witnesses.

Representing Senaratne, President’s Counsel Anuja Premaratne argued that his client had traveled to Korea on an official invitation, and that the trip was not personal but official in nature, supported by the Korean company.

Premaratne further stated that only Senaratne and his wife participated in the visit, and no other family members were involved. 

He argued that there was no evidence of witness tampering and requested bail under suitable conditions.

After reviewing the submissions, Magistrate Bodaragama ruled that there was insufficient basis to remand Senaratne again and ordered his release on bail. The case is scheduled to be recalled on October 10.