The Matara Magistrate’s Court today disclosed that former Minister Basil Rajapaksa had booked air tickets to return to Sri Lanka for his court appearance—but later cancelled them.
The revelation was made during proceedings related to the alleged purchase of land in Brownshill, Matara, using funds suspected to have been earned through illegal means.
Basil Rajapaksa, his wife’s sister Ayoma Galappaththi, her husband Tissa Galappaththi, and Muditha Jayakody have been named as respondents in the case.
Neither Basil Rajapaksa nor Ayoma Galappaththi were present in court today, though their sureties appeared on their behalf.
President’s Counsel Anil Silva, representing Basil Rajapaksa, submitted a set of medical documents pertaining to his client’s health conditions.
However, Deputy Solicitor General Lakmini Girihagama, appearing for the Attorney General, pointed out several discrepancies in the submitted medical reports after examining them in court.
The court took note of these contradictions, as questions continue to grow over whether the former minister intends to return to the country to face the legal proceedings.
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