June 02, Colombo (LNW): The Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court has directed two prominent legal practitioners to appear as witnesses in the ongoing magisterial inquiry into the death of former SriLankan Airlines Chief Executive Officer Kapila Chandrasena.
In an order issued on Monday, Chief Magistrate Pasan Amarasekara summoned President’s Counsel Rienzie Arsecularatne and Attorney-at-Law Udara Muhandiramge to provide evidence as part of the continuing investigation. The two lawyers have been listed among the next witnesses expected to testify when proceedings resume later this week.
During the hearing, investigators from the Colombo Crimes Division informed the court that efforts are underway to conduct a more comprehensive forensic examination of the late Chandrasena’s mobile phone. Authorities revealed that arrangements are being made through the Ministry of Justice to send the device, an iPhone, to the United States for specialised technical analysis.
The court also authorised investigators to forward a green-coloured strap recovered from the deceased’s residence to the Government Analyst’s Department for scientific examination. Officials believe the results could assist investigators in establishing additional facts relevant to the inquiry.
In his ruling, the Magistrate emphasised that legal protections relating to confidential communications would remain in force. Referring to applicable provisions of the Evidence Ordinance and Supreme Court procedural rules, he noted that any legal advice provided to Chandrasena, as well as privileged oral or written communications involving his legal representatives, would not be subject to disclosure during the proceedings.
The two lawyers were formally designated as the 19th and 20th witnesses in the inquiry and have been instructed to appear before court on 5 June. The investigation has been adjourned until that date, when further evidence is expected to be recorded.
The inquiry continues to attract considerable public attention, with investigators pursuing multiple forensic and testimonial avenues in an effort to establish the circumstances surrounding Chandrasena’s death.
