Cardiologist, three others released on bail over sexual exploitation of minor

Four suspects including the cardiologist attached to Welisara Navy Camp and Mihintale Pradeshiya Sabha Deputy Chairman who were arrested for the alleged exploitation of a 15-year-old girl were today ordered to be released on bail by Colombo Chief Magistrate's Court.

Accordingly, Colombo Additional Magistrate Lochana Abeywickrama ordered lieutenant commander of Sri Lanka Navy, Mihintale Pradeshiya Sabha Deputy Chairman and two businessmen to be released on a cash bail of Rs.25,000 with two sureties of Rs.2.5 million each.

They were ordered to be released on bail following the conclusion of identification parade held against them.

Meanwhile, the court was informed that the victimised girl had identified the four suspects during the identification parade.

The girl had told during the identification parade that none of the suspects had asked her age prior to sexual intercourse.

Investigations have revealed that the brokers had convinced the clients who approached the girl was between 18 and 19 years old.

Further magisterial inquiry fixed for July 19.