7 February 2022 11:04 am
The Court of Appeal today ordered to release Attorney-at-law Hejaaz Hizbullah on bail after nearly two years in detention and remand custody.
Accordingly, the Court of Appeal directed the Puttalam High Court to release Hejaaz Hizbullah on bail with suitable bail conditions.
The Court of Appeal two-judge-bench comprising Justice Menaka Wijesundera and Justice Neil Iddawala made this order taking into consideration a revision application filed on behalf of Hejaaz Hizbullah.
The Attorney General did not raise objections to release Hizbullah on bail.
On January 28, an application made by the defence requesting to release Attorney-at-law Hejaaz Hizbullah on bail was rejected by Puttalam High Court.
The High Court Judge Kumari Abeyrathne refused to grant bail citing that she has no jurisdiction to grant bail under the Prevention of Terrorism Act.
This revision application had been filed on behalf of Attorney-at-law Hejaaz Hizbullah seeking an order to release him on bail.
An indictment under the Prevention of Terrorism Act and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) Act has now been served on Hejaaz Hizbullah. According to the indictment, Hizbullah is accused of making certain statements to students in contravention of these laws.
Hizbullah is charged under the Prevention of Terrorism Act. He was arrested in April 2020.
Romesh de Silva PC with Niran Anketell and Shanaka Cooray instructed by Sanath Wijewardena appeared for Hejaaz Hizbullah
Additional Solicitor General Rohantha Abeysuriya PC with Senior State Counsel Lakmini Girihagama represented the Attorney General. (Lakmal Sooriyagoda)