Freelance journalist Keerthi Ratnayake granted bail

Keerthi Ratnayake, a defence and political analyst attached to Lanka e-News was today ordered to be released on bail by Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court.

Ratnayake was arrested for allegedly giving information to the Indian Embassy in Colombo concerning a possible terrorist attack. Colombo Fort Magistrate Priyantha Liyanage ordered the release of the suspect on a surety bail of Rs.50,000.

Defence Counsel Upul Kumarapperuma with Salomi Gunaratne with Radha Kuruvitabandara appearing for the suspect had made a request to discharge the suspect from all allegations. They stated that the charges against their client cannot be maintained due to insufficient evidence.

The suspect had been previously employed as a Flying Officer attached to the Sri Lanka Air Force. He was arrested by Colombo Crimes Division under Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) on August 14, 2021.  

Keerthi Ratnayake had also filed a Fundamental Rights petition challenging his arrest and the detention. (Lakmal Sooriyagoda)