IGP Pujith Jayasundara and Former Defence Secretary Hemasiri Fernando were released on a surety bail of Rs 500,000 each by the Colombo Chief Magistrate's court today (Jul 9).
They were arrested by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) over the failure to prevent the Easter Sunday terrorist attacks.
The Chief Magistrate pointed out that there was insufficient evidence to prove the murder charges and other charges against the suspects.
Last week, the Attorney General had instructed the Acting IGP to name the said officials as suspects over the terrorist attacks and produce them before court.
These instructions had been issued in keeping with the recommendations of the Special Investigation Committee which was appointed by the President to probe into the Easter Sunday bombings.
However, Chief Magistrate Lanka Jayaratne, issuing the ruling, pointed out that the judiciary is not bound to act in line with the recommendations of the Attorney General.
Ms. Jayaratne also observed that a proper investigation has not been carried out into the suspects since allegations have been levelled against them even without recording a statement.
The Chief Magistrate instructed the accused to provide a statement before the CID after they have been discharged from hospital.
Former Defence Secretary Fernando and IGP Jayasundara are receiving treatment at the Colombo General Hospital and the Police Hospital respectively.
Deputy Solicitor General Thusith Mudalige appeared for the prosecution while President’s Counsel Anuja Premaratne represented the accused.
Further hearing on the will take place on July 22.
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