Special HC extends Gotabhaya's travel ban until July 24

The Special High Court today (Jun 19) extended the time period given to former Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa to travel overseas until July 24.

Initially, Mr. Rajapaksa had been granted permission to travel overseas between May 24 and June 2 since he had to travel to Singapore to receive medical treatment.

The former Defence Secretary was handed over a travel ban after he had been accused of causing losses worth Rs 33.9 million worth to the government by constructing the D.A  Rajapaksa memorial museum.

During today's hearing, President's Counsel Ali Sabry, appearing for Mr. Rajapaksa, had told court that his client had undergone a medical surgery in Singapore on May 31.

He had also requested court to postpone hearing on the case since the accused has to undergo six weeks of rest.

Accordingly, court announced that hearing on the case would be adjourned until July 24. Summons were also issued on the ninth suspect to appear before court during the next hearing. Four witnesses were also instructed to appear on the same date.