Senior CID investigators further informed the court that the special investigation was launched in relation to allegedly false statements disseminated through various electronic media outlets and social media platforms. These statements are alleged to have seriously undermined the independence of Sri Lanka’s judicial system and directly interfered with ongoing special investigations being conducted by the security authorities concerning retired Major General Suresh Sallay, the former Director of the State Intelligence Service, who is currently being held in state custody.Accordingly, the CID informed the court through a special further report that extensive investigations are being carried out into statements made by current MP Dilith Jayaweera, former MPs Wimal Weerawansa, Udaya Gammanpila, and Asanka Navaratne during various media briefings. Investigations are also being conducted into the activities of Sugeeshwara Bandara and Mahinda Pathirana.

The CID requested the court to issue formal summons requiring the six individuals concerned to appear in person before the Fort Magistrate’s Court on 1 July.However, the Magistrate rejected the CID’s request and stated in open court that issuing summons to compel the individuals to appear before the Magistrate’s Court at this stage was neither necessary nor appropriate.

Delivering his ruling, the Magistrate further observed that, since the individuals concerned are alleged to have committed offences under the Contempt of Court, Tribunal or Institution Act, No. 8 of 2024, the proper legal course would be to conduct a preliminary inquiry and thereafter file proceedings directly before the Court of Appeal of Sri Lanka. He noted that, in those circumstances, requiring the individuals to appear personally before the Magistrate’s Court was not legally necessary.