Former President’s London trip confirmed as private-court told

It has not yet been verified beyond reasonable doubt whether any wrongdoing occurred, that will be determined during the trial 

By Bhagya Silva  

Colombo Fort Magistrate Isuru Netthikumara informed court that, according to statements obtained from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in relation to the investigation, former President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s visit to London was not an official visit but a private visit.   

However, it has not yet been verified beyond reasonable doubt whether any wrongdoing occurred, that will be determined during the trial. At present, the facts presented to court confirm only that the visit was private.  

In connection with the ongoing investigation, the Magistrate ordered that all relevant statements be obtained from the University of Wolverhampton in London, the investigations be concluded, and a further report submitted by April 29.  

He further directed that statements be recorded from all suspects connected to the incident and that steps be taken to file indictments, or that court be informed of any reasons for delay.