Pastor Jerome Fernando to be arrested upon arrival

• President Ranil Wickremesinghe had informed the CID Director to commence an immediate investigation into Jerome Fernando’s controversial statements

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya   

Jerome Fernando, a Pastor who is under investigation by the CID over his hate comments against Buddhism, Islam and Hinduism, will be arrested upon his arrival at the BIA as there is a travel ban issued against him by the Colombo Fort Magistrate, Police Spokesperson SSP Nihal Thalduwa said.  

SSP Thalduwa said that the CID had received several complaints against Jerome Fernando and the CID had begun an investigation against him on Tuesday. The CID has also obtained a travel ban from the Fort Magistrate Court on the same day. “However he had left the country on Sunday,” SSP Thalduwa said. 

 
“Whenever the court issues a travel ban against an individual, he cannot leave the country or if he is overseas, he can be arrested upon his arrival,” the Police Spokesperson said.   

When asked what action will be taken if he does not return or leaves for another country, the spokesman said further action can only be taken following an investigation.   

“Interpol or internationally assistance can be obtained following an order from the court if any kind of criminal offense is confirmed following investigation and then the facts were presented to the court. After presenting the relevant charges, an order can be obtained from the court based on the legal framework,” he said.   
The spokesman said that the Attorney General’s instructions will also be sought into the investigations.   
Earlier, President Ranil Wickremesinghe had informed the CID Director to commence an immediate investigation into Pastor Jerome Fernando’s controversial statements where he insulted the Buddha in front of a packed congregation recently and said even the Buddha needed Jesus.   

In a national Security Council meeting held on Monday morning, the National Security Head had raised concerns with the President over the Pastor’s critical remarks against Buddhism, Islam and Hinduism and said this could lead to communal tension in the country.   

In response to the investigations, Jerome Fernando said on a Instagram post on Tuesday evening that he is presently traveling on pre scheduled official matters pertaining to the ministry and will return to Sri Lanka on Sunday.