Keheliya Released on Strict Bail Conditions | CIABOC Pursues Two Investigations

COLOMBO (News 1st); Former Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella, who was arrested by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) over two separate allegations, was today released on bail by the Colombo Chief Magistrate's Court.

The order was issued after the former minister was produced before the Colombo Chief Magistrate's Court following his arrest earlier in the day.

The first allegation relates to claims that Rambukwella influenced authorities to prevent a proper investigation into the alleged theft of an ancient archaeological artefact known as a Sandagala (moonstone) from the archaeological site at Udamaluwa, Kundasale.

In relation to that case, Colombo Chief Magistrate Asanga S. Bodaragama ordered that the suspect be released on two personal bail bonds of Rs. 1 million each.

The Magistrate also ordered the imposition of a foreign travel ban on the suspect.

The second allegation concerns the recruitment of six employees to the Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation in excess of the approved cadre and the subsequent attachment of those employees to Rambukwella's personal staff while he was serving as the Minister of Mass Media.

Investigators allege that despite his approved personal staff quota having already been filled, the former minister unlawfully attached the employees to his office, causing a loss of Rs. 14.3 million to the Rupavahini Corporation.

In connection with that case, the court ordered that Rambukwella be released on two additional personal bail bonds of Rs. 5 million each.

Former Minister Keheliya Rambukwella was arrested by officers attached to the Bribery Commission earlier today in connection with the two ongoing investigations.