Opposition Parliamentarian Namal Rajapaksa was remanded until 23 September by the Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court yesterday (16) after being produced before Court as a suspect in an investigation into the alleged misappropriation of approximately USD 2 million in connection with the acquisition of Airbus aircraft by SriLankan Airlines.

Colombo Fort Magistrate Pasan Amarasena issued the remand order after considering submissions by Deputy Solicitor General Janaka Bandara, who appeared for the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).

President’s Counsel Anil Silva, together with other attorneys representing Rajapaksa, also made submissions before the Court.

The Magistrate announced that a decision on Rajapaksa’s bail application would be delivered on 23 September.

The investigation centres on allegations concerning the handling of funds in connection with the controversial procurement of Airbus aircraft for SriLankan Airlines.

Rajapaksa was brought before Court by prison authorities in compliance with a previous order issued by the Judiciary.

Police had also taken measures to strengthen security around the Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court premises yesterday as Rajapaksa was produced before Court.

The allegations are being investigated by the CID, with the Court proceedings continuing next week.

PHOTO Krishan Kariyawasam