March 20, Colombo (LNW): Additional Solicitor General Dileepa Peeris made shocking claims in the Matara Magistrate’s Court yesterday (19), asserting that former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Deshabandu Tennakoon poses a greater threat to society than notorious organised criminals such as ‘Harak Kata’ and ‘Makandure Madush’.
Representing the prosecution, Peeris stated that Tennakoon had grossly abused his position of power within the Police Department for personal gain, calling his actions far more harmful than the activities of some of the country’s most infamous criminals.
“He has been living amongst us like a shadow, far worse than criminals such as Harak Kata and Makandure Madush. His misuse of authority is on an extensive scale. We respectfully request that he be remanded without bail until further investigations can be conducted,” Peeris told court.
Tennakoon, who had been evading authorities for nearly three weeks, appeared unexpectedly before the Matara Magistrate’s Court yesterday. Following his surrender, Magistrate Arun Indrajith Buddhadasa remanded the former IGP until today, 20th March, as the investigation into his alleged crimes continues.
During the court hearing, Peeris emphasised the gravity of the situation, stating, “For the past 20 days, authorities have been actively searching for Tennakoon, yet he managed to remain at large, only to suddenly appear before the court without anyone realising. This raises serious concerns that need to be addressed. Tennakoon is unfit to serve as even a police constable, let alone hold the prestigious position of IGP. His actions are an insult to the police force.“
Further revelations came to light during the proceedings, with Peeris informing the court that investigations had uncovered Tennakoon’s ownership of eight properties.
Shockingly, his name had not appeared on the electoral register since 2020, adding another layer of mystery to the case.
In response, President’s Counsel Shanaka Ranasinghe, who was representing Tennakoon, argued for his client’s release on bail. After carefully considering the arguments put forward, Magistrate Buddhadasa announced that a decision regarding Tennakoon’s bail application would be made today (20).
