March 10, Colombo (LNW): Deputy Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs Sunil Watagala has issued a stark warning regarding former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Deshabandu Tennakoon, who is currently evading arrest following the issuance of a warrant for his apprehension.
Watagala stated that if Tennakoon continues to abscond, the authorities will pursue legal measures to seize his assets, both movable and immovable.
Speaking on the matter, Watagala emphasised that the law treats all individuals equally, regardless of their previous position or stature, be it a former Prime Minister, President, or even a former top police official.
The focus, he insisted, remains on the fact that Tennakoon is a suspect who is deliberately avoiding arrest, raising questions about his motives.
The Deputy Minister also questioned Tennakoon’s actions, suggesting that if he were innocent, there would be no reason for him to flee from justice.
He pointed out that the police are continuing their efforts to locate Tennakoon, yet he remains elusive.
Watagala stressed that should Tennakoon fail to come forward voluntarily, the authorities would take further legal steps to ensure compliance with the law.
Referring to a circular issued on January 21, 2025, by Acting Inspector General of Police, Priyantha Weerasooriya, Watagala outlined that the circular explicitly states that if a suspect deliberately avoids legal proceedings, their assets could be seized.
This includes all forms of property, which can be confiscated to enforce the law, as per the provisions of the Code of Criminal Procedure, specifically sections 60, 61, and 62.
Despite being given ample opportunity to explain his actions, Tennakoon has failed to do so, leaving the authorities with no choice but to proceed with the legal remedies available to them.
Although these provisions have not frequently been applied in the past, Watagala confirmed that they are now ready to be enforced to ensure that Tennakoon’s assets are adequately addressed.
In closing, the Deputy Minister made it clear that Tennakoon’s wealth, which is now under intense scrutiny, must be accounted for, and the authorities will take all necessary measures to ensure transparency and accountability.
