Presidential pardon misused, CID

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya   

An ongoing investigation by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) into allegations that several inmates were released illegally during the 2025 Vesak period, revealed that a number of inmates were illegally released under the guise of the Presidential Vesak Pardon this year.  

The investigation was launched following a complaint filed by the Presidential Secretariat on June 6, alleging that unauthorized inmates were released in addition to those officially approved under the presidential pardon programme.  Earlier, Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP Ajith P. Perera raised questions in Parliament regarding the swift pardon of W.M. Athula Tilakaratne, who was convicted on May 2nd for misappropriating Rs. 4 million and reportedly released just ten days later on Vesak Poya Day.  

“How did the President grant a pardon to Athula Tilakaratne so quickly?” Perera asked, criticizing the process.  

In response, the Presidential Media Division clarified that W.H. Athula Tilakaratne was not among those officially approved by the President to receive a pardon.  

Following the complaint, the CID has begun recording statements from key prison officials, including the Commissioner General of Prisons.   

Police said that additional documents are being examined, and further statements will be obtained.  

CID sources revealed that this is not an isolated incident.   

Investigations revealed that similar unauthorized releases have occurred in previous years, with inmates being freed under the guise of the presidential pardon programme without proper approval.  

The CID is continuing its investigation into all prison officers and officials involved in the alleged misconduct.