A leaked report from the Attorney General’s Department on the case against Avant Garde Maritime Services, confirms the Colombo Telegraph report which exposed the Attorney General’s recommendations on the possible arrest of Gotabaya Rajapaksa.
Gotabaya
According the report AG did recommend that the former Secretary to Ministry of Defence Gotabaya Rajapaksa and four others would be arrested for committing offences pertaining to the Unauthorized Importation of Fire Arms to Sri Lanka (Under the Prevention of Terrorism Act and Fire Arms Ordinance), Possession of Fire Arms and Ammunition Without Valid Licenses (Under the Fire Arms Ordinance and Explosives Ordinance) and aonspiracy, aiding and abetting to commit the above offences.
As Colombo Telegraph exclusively reported on March 09, 2015 it was Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe who prevented the arrest of Gotabaya Rajapaksa.
The Attorney General’s Department consulted Prime Minister Wickremesinghe over the recommendation that Gotabaya be taken into custody together with four others for alleged violation of the Firearms Ordinance and other laws. Prime Minister Wickremesinghe has said that the former Defence Secretary should not be taken into custody.
We publish below the report in full:
CR1/58/2015
Hon. Attorney General
Case against Avant Garde Maritime Services and others pertaining to the – Floating Armory
Offences committed –
1.Unauthorized Importation of Fire Arms to Sri Lanka ( Under the Prevention of Terrorism Act and Fire Arms Ordinance)
2 Possession of Fire Arms and ammunition without valid licenses. (Under the Fire Arms Ordinance and Explosives Act)
3. Conspiracy, aiding and abetting to commit the above offences.
Suspects –
(1) Nissanka Senadhipathy – Chairman Avant Guarde Maritime Services
(2) Manjulakumara Yapa – Director Avant Guarde Maritime Services,
(3) Gotabhaya Rajapakse – Secretary , Ministry of Defence
(4) Mrs . D.M.S. Jayaratne Addl. Secretary , Ministry of Defence
(5) Major General Palitha Fernando (Rtd.) – Director Chairman Raknalanka Military Liaisons Officer
An investigation by the CID is ongoing in relation to the authority given to the Rakna Lanka Company and Avant Guarde Maritime Services to supply weapons and other related services to the merchant ships and fishing trawlers using weapons belonging to the state and others.
This report pertains to the case of the Floating Armory run by the and Avant Guarde Maritime Services.
A consignment of military weapons and ammunitions was found without lawful authority in the possession of Avant Garde Mritime Services in a ship by the name of ‘Mahanuwara’ docked at Galle harbor. At the time of the commencement of the investigations ship had contained more than 3000 guns (including AK 47 rifles and other military weapons) and ammunition amounting to more than 7 hundred thousand rounds. The ship is leased out to Avant Guarde Meritime services by its lawful owners ‘Lanka Shipping’ and the said firearms and ammunitions were found in the exclusive possession, custody and control of the Avant Garde Mritime Services. At the moment, on our instructions the CID and the Government Analyst’s department are in the process of taking a stock and carrying out necessary tests of the said firearms.
A summary of a proposal (dated 18th August) submitted by the chairman of the Avant Guarde Maritime Services, to position a Floating Armory in OPL Galle had been submitted by Ms Jayaratne for the authorization to the then Secretary to the Ministry of Defence Gotabaya Rajapakse . Secretary has authorized the said proposal by placing his signature on the same, which is annexed herewith marked X1.
By her letter dated 18th September 2012 Ms. Jayaratne Additional Secretary to the Ministry of Defence had granted approval for M/S Avant Garde Mritime Services to deploy a Floating Armory off Sri Lanka in the International Waters. (Annexure X2). This happens to be the only authority that has been granted to Avant Guarde Maritime Services to hold the possession of the said numbers of weapons and ammunitions.
However contrary to the authority given by X1, Ms Jayaratne herself had subsequently issued a further letter to the Commander of Navy directing him to grant permission to the vessel Mahanuwara belonging to Avant Guarde Maritime Services to exit / enter the port of Galle with weapons on board whenever such requirements are requested. (Annexure X2)
CID investigations have revealed that the ship (or the vessel) in question had been doing all her operations completely being docked at the Galle harbour and had never carried out any of its business transactions being deployed in the international waters, as per the authority granted.
They had supplied arms and ammunition to the merchant ships to get protection against sea pirates, a transaction previously handled by the Sri Lankan navy. The whole process seems to have been done with the ulterior motive of handing over a massively profitable business previously done by the Sri Lankan Navy to the private company by the name of Avant Garde Mritime Servises without, adhering to any transparent tender or other procedures. The CID investigations have revealed that the Avant Garde Maritime Services earns a daily income of nearly Rs.15 million from this business transaction.
Investigations have further revealed that in the process of the above operation following Offenses have been committed –
1. Unauthorized Importation of Fire Arms to Sri Lanka
2. Possession of Fire Arms and ammunition without valid licenses.
3. Conspiracy, aiding and abetting to commit the above offences.
Unlawful importation of firearms into Sri Lanka under the Firearms Ordinance.
According to Sec 3 of the Firearms Ordinance the importation and possession of guns in Sri Lanka “shall take place only in accordance with licenses and permits provided for by the Fire Arms Ordinance.
According to Sec 9 thereof,the importation of guns into Sri Lanka is prohibited except (a) through any approved port of entry in Sri Lanka or by passengers arriving at any approved port of entry.
In terms of Sec. 9(2) any person importing a gun into Sri Lanka otherwise than in accordance with this section shall be guilty of an offence.
No license or a permit has been issued to the Avant Guarde Maritime Services under the Firearms Ordinance to import gums. When the service was handed over to the Avant Guarde Maritime Services from the Sri Lanka navy only 800 odd guns had been handed over. Presently there are more than 3000 military fire arms in their possession.
A prima facie case is established under the above provisions of the firearms ordinance against,
(1) Nissanka Senadhipathy – Chairman Avant Guarde Maritime Services and
(2) Manjulakumara Yapa – Director Avant Guarde Maritime Services,
for importation of firearms without a licence to Sri Lanka and a prima facie case is established against
(1) Gotabhaya Rajapakse – Secretary , Ministry of Defence
(2) Mrs . D.M.S. Jayaratne Addl. Secretary , Ministry of Defence
(3) Major General Palitha Fernando (Rtd.) – Director Chairman Raknalanka Military Liaisons Officer,
for conspiracy and aiding abetting the above mention accused to commit the said offence.
Offence of importation of firearms under the Prevention of Terrorism Act
Moreover, the preamble to the Prevention of Terrorism Act states, that it is also an “act to make the prevention of unlawful activities of any individual group of individuals within Sri Lanka or outside Sri Lanka”.
According to Section (1) E, of the Prevention of Terrorism Act, “Any person who without lawful authority imports any firearms or ammunition shall be guilty of an offence”.
According to Section 3 (b) thereof any person who abets, conspires, attempts, the commission of an offence; liable to imprisonment for a period not less than five years not exceeding 20 years.
The offence of unlawful importation of Fire Arms by the Avant Guarde Maritime Services, falls into the ambit of the said offence of the Prevention of Terrorism Act.
Possession of unlicensed weapons in violation of the Firearms Ordinance
According to Section 22 (1) of the Firearms Ordinance, “No person shall have in his custody, or possess or use, any gun, unless he shall hold a licence therefor in accordance with this Ordinance”.
Section 23(1) thereof states that “Every person desiring to obtain a gun licence shall, within ten days of his having obtained possession of the gun in respect of which the licence is desired, make application, either personally or in writing, in the form L in Schedule A, to the licensing authority, specifying-
(a) his name and address ;
(b) The number and description of the gun for which the licence is desired ; and shall, if required, produce such gun before the licensing authority for inspection”.
The Avant Guarde Maritime Services had not complied with the above provision.
No license or permit has been issued to the Avant Guarde Maritime Services under the Firearms Ordinance to possess guns that was found in their custody. Accordingly a prima facie case is established under the above provisions against,
(1) Nissanka Senadhipathy – Chairman Avant Guarde Maritime Services and
(2) Manjulakumara Yapa – Director Avant Guarde Maritime Services,
for possession of firearms without a licence and a prima facie case is established against
(1) Gotabhaya Rajapakse – Secretary, Ministry of Defence
(2) Mrs . D.M.S. Jayaratne Addl. Secretary , Ministry of Defence
(3) Major General Palitha Fernando (Rtd.) – Director Chairman Raknalanka Military Liaisons Officer
For conspiracy and aiding abetting the above mention accused to commit the said offence.
Importation and Possession of unlicensed ammunition, violating the Explosives Ordinance
According to Section 8(1) of the Explosive Ordinance
No person, other than a licensee or permittee who is authorized by his licence or permit to do so, shall import any explosive.
In terms of section 9(2) No person shall except under the authority of licence import, possess or use any explosives for any purpose….
No license or permit has been issued to the Avant Guarde Maritime Services under the Explosives Ordinance to possess ammuntion that was found in their possession . Accordingly a prima facie case is established under the above offeces against,
(1) Nissanka Senadhipathy – Chairman Avant Guarde Maritime Services and
(2) Manjulakumara Yapa – Director Avant Guarde Maritime Services,
for exportation and possession of explosives without a licence to and a prima facie case is established against
(1) Gotabhaya Rajapakse – Secretary , Ministry of Defence
(2) Mrs . D.M.S. Jayaratne Addl. Secretary , Ministry of Defence
(3) Major General Palitha Fernando (Rtd.) – Director Chairman Raknalanka Military Liaisons Officer
for conspiracy and aiding abetting the above mention accused to commit the said offence.
It is further recommended to launch an investigation into the assets of the above mentioned suspects under the ‘Money Laundering Act’
Section 3. (1) of the ‘Money Laundering Act’ is to the effect that any person, who (a) engages directly or indirectly in any transaction in relation to any property which is derived or realised, directly or indirectly, from any unlawful activity, shall be guilty of the offence of money laundering.
The act defines “unlawful activity” as meaning any act which constitutes an offence under — (b) any law or regulation for the time being in force relating to the prevention and suppression of terrorism; (d) the Firearms Ordinance (Chapter 182), the Explosives or the Offensive Weapons Act, No. 18 of 1966.
Recommendations
I am of the view that a strong prima facie case has been established against the said five suspects, and that they should be indicted under the above discussed provisions of law.
If you agree with my recommendation, as the first step I recommend, that the CID be directed to arrest and produce before the magistrate the five suspects namely,
(1) Nissanka Senadhipathy – Chairman Avant Guarde Maritime Services and
(2) Manjulakumara Yapa – Director Avant Guarde Maritime Services,
(3) Gotabhaya Rajapakse – Secretary , Ministry of Defence
(4) Mrs . D.M.S. Jayaratne Addl. Secretary , Ministry of Defence
(5) Major General Palitha Fernando (Rtd.) – Director Chairman Raknalanka Military Liaisons Officer’
for the committing the offences of ,
1.Unauthorized Importation of Fire Arms to Sri Lanka 9( Under the Prevention of Terrorism Act and Fire Arms Ordinance)
2 Possession of Fire Arms and ammunition without valid licenses. (Under the Fire Arms Ordinance and Explosives Ordinance)
3. Conspiracy, aiding and abetting to commit the above offences.
It is further recommended to seek an order to cease all the illegal business operations of the Avant Guarde Maritime Services relating to the floating armory forthwith, and hand over the weapons and ammunitions stored therein, and in their possession to the Sri Lankan navy directing them to continue with the business of supplying arms and ammunitions to the merchant vessels.
Wasantha Navaratne Bandara
ASG
Related posts;
Exclusive: Ranil Prevents Gota Arrest
Matilda Ellepola / April 27, 2015
This man RW is waiting for another disastor as did happened to him in 2003 when CBK got 3 ministries and send him packing..
Now., this is an opportinity to hold the Rajapaksa snake on his head and not only ignorant, they seems to hold this snake on its tail.
/
Ben Hurling / April 27, 2015
We live in a totally corrupt system!
Why on earth should AG consult RW or Wijedasa about potential arrests? Does legal process take place at their discretion? While corrupt John Amaratunga is waiting in the wings to create even more obstacles. Not to mention the criminal Sri Lanka Police top brass.
Conclusion, SLFP or UNP cannot fix this bloody mess. They are deeply entangled in it themselves. Sri Lanka needs a force to whip these two corrupt parties, their cronies and henchmen into enforced discipline.
Cheers!
/
rew / April 27, 2015
Here begins the end of a UNP Govt
/
Matilda Ellepola / April 27, 2015
There are few who is protecting big Goat and other Rajapaksas and they are
A.Wijedada Rajapaksha – Minister of Justice
B.Tilak Marapana, leading UNPer and lawyer represending Avant Garde as well as leading advisor on anti corruption for the PM.
C. John Amaratunga, this long john who shamelessly went with MaRa on state expenses of those mega trips is not protecting them.
we need to throw all these morons into the Indian ocean.
/
punchinilame / April 27, 2015
It appears the 3 named here are holding the reins of AGs Dept. when it comes to
the Rajapakses for a hidden political advantage, to be taken only when elections
are announced, for political points that can be more easily gained without opposing leadership statements, or is RW held in some hitherto unknown ransom?
Law MUST take its neutral course, if Justice is to prevail for ANY rank of
citizenship.
/
Real Peace / April 27, 2015
Ben
I agree with RW. Democracy is now in a crawling stage in Sri Lanka, but you are expecting it to do a huge high jump. Hence there is no harm the AG discussed with the govt. These brothers are blood thirsty barbarians and highly unpredictable. By arresting him at this stage, maybe, the govt might have been worried about military coup by GoRa with some misguided soldiers in this vulnerable period and sympathy votes at the election.
What RW should do at this stage is to educate the public about the massive scale of corruption. He should tell the masses in the language they could understand; with the looted money how many youths could have been employed, how many nurses could have been employed, how many teachers could have been employed, how much the money the govt could have handed out to families that are below the poverty line…..this is what RW should do now!!
/
Ben Hurling / April 27, 2015
Real Peace,
Agree we are dealing with a web of blood thirsty criminals. I see the need for caution & strategic thinking given the complex situation in Parliament post 8th January.
These were the most powerful individuals in a regime that ran Sri Lanka for nearly 10 years. It is true they have built up a fake image of themselves as “true sons of the soil”. Using relentless propaganda and lies. Which we must now rapidly undo.
However, nobody should be able to interfere with judicial process in SL. That was the mandate given by the people. Transferring those habits from Rajapassa clan to UNP bigwigs is not the change we sought.
Further, we must not think twice about dealing firmly with “highly unpredictable barbarians” you refer to. Such hesitation will be interpreted as weakness by defeated cronies at once.
Case against Gota is clear. AG is convinced and has recommended arrest. There is no reason why Gota should be roaming streets of Colombo. That too at fuel, security & a fleet of vehicles provided by impoverished tax payers of SL.
Gota’s immediate arrest is totally warranted & justified.
Cheers!
/
Snowden Edward Asange / April 28, 2015
YES ! we are sick and tired of the 2 parties SLFP and UNP…lets get AKD as the prime Minister, he may have Gota sent to jail sooner than anyone else. RW used to be a good politician, I used to respect him..not anymore since this issue and the Jan 8th coup attempt being swept under the carpet..
It’s ascary thought to prune the power of MS and hand it to the next PM.. MR may come from behind and kick RW in his ass… we should be prepared for the unexpected, as such lets go for AKD…of course without the likes of Somawansa Amarasingha…
Ranil is part of teh problem and not seems to be the solution, MS has to be watchful than blindly go by what RW says….
/
Amarasiri / April 27, 2015
Attorney General’s Department
RE: Exclusive: Attorney General’s Recommendations On Gota Arrest: Full Text
You have all the information.
“According the report AG did recommend that the former Secretary to Ministry of Defence Gotabaya Rajapaksa and four others would be arrested for committing offences pertaining to the Unauthorized Importation of Fire Arms to Sri Lanka (Under the Prevention of Terrorism Act and Fire Arms Ordinance), Possession of Fire Arms and Ammunition Without Valid Licenses (Under the Fire Arms Ordinance and Explosives Ordinance) and aonspiracy, aiding and abetting to commit the above offences.”
Make your move, and go after the Next case.
You arrest petty thieves. Arrest the current bastards!
/
Amarasiri / April 27, 2015
Attorney General,
“Recommendations
I am of the view that a strong prima facie case has been established against the said five suspects, and that they should be indicted under the above discussed provisions of law.
If you agree with my recommendation, as the first step I recommend, that the CID be directed to arrest and produce before the magistrate the five suspects namely,”
AG, Make your move now, while the Iron is Hot, before it cools down.
People want Law and order. There ae Liars, Crooks, Robbers and Criminals, who need to be taken to the book.
/
dcn / April 27, 2015
If the Attorney General’s recommendations were to arrest Gota and others why did P.M. Ranil W
stop same? There should be good strong strategic reasons for doing so and would be interesting to know why? There are already accusations by the public that Ranil W is protecting Rajapakse family.
Further, it is also interesting to know how such an important document got leaked from AG’s office?
Is there any special reasons behind it? Is it to accuse Ranil W?
/
Native Vedda / April 27, 2015
dcn
Spin and spin doctors work mysteriously.
Who is the prince of darkness (head of spin)?
What is the purpose of this selective leak?
Who is to benefit from the spin (in this case selective leak)
What is the target or targeted audience?
Whom does this leak target?
If true why is Ranil reluctant to do the right thing?
Is Ranil preparing for something else by leaking and testing the waters?
….
….
Political analysts should unravel the mysteries. I said Political analysts not Smart Ass Patriots.
K A Sumanasekera over to you.
/
Point of View / April 27, 2015
Totally, totally agree NV !
I can hear fire crackers !!!
/
dcn / April 27, 2015
Native vedda
I am confused who is behind? Is P.M. Ranil W being misled by Tilak Marapane who is also attorney to Avant Garde?
The memo from AG recommends the arrest but nowhere it has been established that Ranil prevented the arrest of Gotabahya Rajapakse. In this regard, I also read from another website that the AG is holding up many cases and he probably would be changed in the near future. Therefore it would be good if Ranil woukd clear the air urgently.
/
Lanka Watch / April 27, 2015
One of the conditions MR laid down to Ranil,to hand over the powers to newly elected president Mr. Sirisena, when he went to temple Trees on 9th Jan early morning is that Rajapakse family should be protected at any cost and the second demand was not to appoint Gen. (then) Fonseka as a minister and Ranil should be complimented for standing by the promise given to MR ,much against the wishes of the people, because he was more keen on getting the position of PM than what people wanted.
When elected President was hiding for fear his of life, Ranil, being a UNP’er and organizer of anti MR campaign,was able to get to the temple tress with no aid and this shows the relationship he had with the former govt.
One may say, then why was Basil arrested and the answer is when people
come to know the facts of large scale corruption,they will be arrested,
inquired and released on bail and court cases take donkeys ages to resolve and meantime, its possible that they may get presidential pardon, once the people’s anger vanishes. This is politics my friends
/
Uthungan / April 27, 2015
“There are already accusations by the public that Ranil W is protecting Rajapakse family.”
That is clear as daylight, from the fact that following the Attorney General’s advise on 8th January 2015 and the blunt refusal by the top police officer to accede to the request by MR to deploy the police,a call was made to RW to proceed to Temple Trees and it was Thirukumar Nadesan a close relative of MR who accompanied RW.
Besides that RW has to be ever grateful to MR for preventing Sajith Premadasa taking over the leadership of the UNP.apart of the fact that minister John Amaratunga is adept at hunting with the hounds and running with the rabbits at the same time, given the fact that the SLFP historically is a protuberance from the spare rib of the UNP.
/
Suresh Murugaser / April 27, 2015
If this is true, it is a bad indictment of “Yahapalanaya”.
What authority does the PM have over the AG if the AG wants to arrest someone. Sure, it was different in the MR days, but I think Maithri should step into this and get it sorted out.
More than anything else, this is a disgrace to the country. All those involved should also be charged for treason!!
/
Mahen / April 27, 2015
The naivety of Ranil is his biggest problem. He is his own enemy.
There are instances where a leader should show generosity and humanity. There are situations he has to be firm and non interfering with the course of natural justice.
He seems to be have problem with his choice at such decisive moments. True leaders are made at these difficult junctures. If he is cannot he will have to pay the price.
/
Jagath Fernando / April 27, 2015
Ranil’s credentials under threat!!!
Another 2001-2004 episode in the making.
/
Senthil / April 27, 2015
Please do that first. One suggestion, arrange a family room in the jail dedicated for that family to spend the rest of their life. Srilankans, specially Tamils will be much safer if they are inside than let loose outside.
/
The Professional / April 28, 2015
My Dear Senthil,
Why not use the restored Jaffna Fort? There will be same families in the North requiring family accommodation in the jail. Later you can have it declared as a living heritage in the world under UNESCO.
The Professional
/
Ansar / April 27, 2015
Wait for the 19th Amendment to be passed, then you will see the real drama.
Ranil is no fool, he is so far sighted and calculative.
He played a vital role in breaking the ranks of LTTE which was the single most reason for the eventual defeat of LTTE.
He is a real statesman and will make the right moves at the right time for the larger benefit of the people, not for his personal benefit like MARA AND THE GANG.
Justice and good governance will prevail under his Leadership ably assisted by MY3, the blessed one who put his life in line to achieve this goal.
WE THE PUBLIC OWE OUR GRATITUDE TO THESE SELFLESS PERSONALITIES, SAVE FOR SOME WHO WANT TO RAPE AND PLUNDER OUR COUNTRY AND PROTECT THE THIEVES IN THE COVER OF PATRIOTISM.
FEEL SO RELIEVED AND HAPPY THAT THE 19TH AMENDMENT WILL GO THROUGH, GOING BY THE OVERWHELMING PUBLIC SUPPORT FOR THE ENACTMENT. FEEL LIKE GETTING FREEDOM ALL OVER AGAIN FROM THE CLUTCHES OF MURDEROUS PRESIDENTIAL POWERS, ESPECIALLY UNDER THE JARAPASSAS.
ONE MOUSTACHE PERISHED IN THE NANDIKADAL, THE OTHER IS GOING TO BE PERISHED IN DIYAWANA OYA. STRIKING RESEMBLANCE…ISN’T IT ?
/
Pot Shot / April 27, 2015
Ansar,
I agree with your sentiments. I supported the UNP and Ranil and I still do. But a wrong is a wrong it can never be right particularly when you preach it and accuse others of it.
RW should not get involved in judicial matters. Non Negotiable
Arujna M ‘s episode is a total cover-up. He is (or was) a sound professional with good credentials but he has wronged the country violating his authority and responsibility. He must be dealt with. We cant act like the way the Rajapakase’s did because we then become one of them. Non Negotiable.
I am hoping the JVP will not let this matter go.
/
Jango / April 27, 2015
Pot Shot – Agreed!” Wrong is wrong”!
And it looks like Ranil is now consistently ‘shitting on the doorstep’! First his huge blunder with Mahendran / CB and then appointing his own ‘Commission’ to investigate. And not a word in response, either justifying his actions or regretting them. Doesn’t he realize he is making life tough for Maithri, or what….???
Of course many of us believe that the sooner Gota and accessories in crimes are put away (legally), the better, but ‘Real Peace’ had a point when he commented (above) that RW may be acting in the interests of ‘discretion being the better part of valor’, given the psychopathic qualities of those in question. So I guess only time will tell about the genuineness of all concerned.
In the meantime Ranil should pay attention to Conventional Wisdom and learn a little bit about humility from Maithri.
/
Lanka Watch / April 28, 2015
Ansar- If Ranil is no fool, far sighted and calculative, how come he
lost 20 odd elections and his premiership is a one time affair as the
next premier could be some one else as the party that gets themajority,
elects the PM under advice from President and SLFP stands a good chance
and JVP & TNA would prefer SLFP leadership to UNP leadership.He should not have interfered with AG’s decision,based on proof available to AG’s
office. What happened to ‘Yahapalana’ which the govt. bragged about in the beginning. It is certain that Ranil is on the fence and to which side he will jump, is yet to be seen.
/
Pacs / April 27, 2015
judicial process and justice should be same for every body. perhape some are above human under Yahapalanaya.
/
Dr,Rajasingham Narendran / April 27, 2015
A very serious situation. However, explanations are needed on the following:
1. The ASG’s letter to addressed to the Attorney General. How was Ranil consulted and how did he respond?
2. Why was the Navy authorised to trade in arms and ammunition? Was the parliament aware of this arms trade?
3.Why is the ASG recommending that this practice (2) be continued.
4. Where is the independence of the AG and why did he not request the police to do the needful?
Dr.Rajasingham Narendran
/
punchinilame / April 28, 2015
To the 1st question – Dayan Jayatille Silva is typing the reply – pl. be patient.
/
Erantha Wijesooriya / April 27, 2015
– Ordering killing of innocent unarmed civilians during the final phase of the war.
– Ordering cold blood execution and rape of surrendered combatants.
– Ordering of firing heavy weapons directed at hospitals.
– Running organized assassination squads. (White van)
– Killing journalists and politicians.
– Running BBS gang wrecking havoc on Muslim civilians.
– Shooting unarmed Sinhalase people asking for water.
– ….. I can go all day…
And he is getting done for making a small commission during weapon purchase?
Only in Srilanka..
/
Mudiyanse / April 27, 2015
Where was this pakkali AG when Prabakaran smuggled weapons into this country under protection of RW? Did he have the balls to go and arrest Prabakaran? Did he at least raise his [Edited out]voice during the time? This coward must have been hiding under his bed and wetting his pants when the bombs go off one after the other in Colombo. [Edited out]
/
Pot Shot / April 27, 2015
RW must be investigated as to why he got involved in judicial matters. This is not good governance. It is he who says that the judiciary and legislature must be separate. Gota must be arrested forthwith.
Earlier last week, we saw good governance given yet another blow by RW who vindicated Arjuna M from all wrong doing by orchestrating a verdict by his handpicked committee.
/
Shamil / April 27, 2015
In this case Maithree should use his executive powers as that is only way remaining to establish democracy now.
/
jayaweera / April 27, 2015
It could be that RW did not want to arrest Gotabaya until it was very clear that he and the team could be indicted.
What would happen if arrested, taken to court and found to have inadequate evidence to convict the team. They will become instant heros!!! That is very dangerous!!!
/
Dev / April 27, 2015
LOL that is why there is a AG to decide if there is enough proof to convict.
Its not Ranil who needs to decide that !
Ranil is blocking the action of law
/
Shreya / April 27, 2015
Ranil W is a politisized PM; not a genuine leader. That means he is more keen in keeping his post rather directing the country in to right path.
/
Shamil / April 27, 2015
Mudiyanse, You should be treated with saudi arabia like medichine. You are suffering Mahindabola virus fever. I am laughing at you racist men! You all were defeted with your hora in jan 8th. Pls shut up your mouth.
/
paul / April 27, 2015
“As Colombo Telegraph exclusively reported on Mar 9, 2015 it was Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe who prevented the arrest of Gotabaya Rajapaksa”.
Who is this man interfering with the due process in the administration of justice. Calling the attorney general and ordering him to release or arrest people at will? You expect him to uphold the law and enshrine Yahapalanaya with My3? Expect Gavapalanaya instead.
/
Ansar / April 27, 2015
Pot Shot,
You are right. Wrong is wrong, but look what happened to Bribery Commissioner who acted on her own and the pandemonium created by the rogues and the consequence, summoning of the BC to parliament which was totally unacceptable.
It is right not to get involved in AG’s decision, but for some reason if his advise was sought, it was right not to upset the apple cart at a crucial time when all were anxiously waiting for the passage of the 19th amendment. Just imagine, what havoc these scoundrels would have created, if he was arrested.
In my opinion, the single most highest priority at this moment of time is the passage of the 19th amendment. If Ranil’s intention was that, I am sure he was right, but I still agree that the AG should be independent, but with the smooth passage of the 19th amendment, almost all will be independent. A slight hiccup in the run up to achieving that goal, is perfectly alright, in my view.
Hope you agree.
/
Pot Shot / April 27, 2015
Ansar,
I do agree. But its time the government shows its teeth. I know that RW is acting in the future interests of this country but he must begin to assert himself. I am very happy that 19A will be passed but a true leader does not require a set of laws to act on the things highlighted in this article.
He should not get involved with the AG and I still disagree in the manner that the Arujuna case was handled. His own government says that they have been damaged by the scandal. There has to be low tolerance on such matters and examples must be set. I don’t see why the 19th Amendment needs to be passed for RW to begin acting.
/
Hadi Sheriff / April 27, 2015
The 2 coffeee friends Mahinda & Ranil follows the syndrome of, you scratch my back I scratch yours
/
CITIZEN / April 27, 2015
If the Attorney General,the Chief Law Officer, who advises the Government on legal matters, says there is a Prima Facie case against the 5 suspects mentioned for the violation of the law of the land and for the criminal acts, why should the Prime Minister stop it? Anyway, AG should advise the Police and Police should take action to arrest them and produce them before the Magistrate.
/
Prasanna / April 27, 2015
Looks like Sri Lanka’s defense force has been infested with huge Octopus where the venums have reached up to foreign lands. We hear Ukraine illegal armed deals with Guerillas, by our VIPs and arm shipments to India without any information or without the Parliaments noticed.
Both President Maithreepala Sirisena, PM Ranil Wickremasinghe and many other senior Politicians have to be extra careful and be extra vigilant and to build a strong and professional Intelligence unit.
Safeguarding Sri Lanka from both internal and foreign conspirators is a priority of the Government.
/
kali / April 27, 2015
If any one cares to cast their mind back they will note that in response to one of TGs Articles I wrote ” the clue is in the speeches made by MS during the election campaign and RWs visit to Temple Trees in the early hours of the morning after.
MS & RW gave the assurances to MR & Gotha that they will be protected and under the principle of ESTOPPEL they are prevented from going back on their words. In other words “Estopped”.
This is what you call Sri Lankan Justice Crime in Sinhala Lanka pays and the World watching.
/
ed / April 27, 2015
THERE SHOULD BE ONE RULE UNDER DEMOCRACY IN THE COUNTRY. IF ONE IS GUILT OF FRAUD AND ACT OF FRAUD OR EVEN CORRUPTION HE / SHE SHOULD FACE JUSTICE AND THE COUNTRY’S RULE OF LAW FOR THE RICH AND FOR THE POOR OR FOR THE VIP SHOULD REMAIN THE SAME.
IF GOTA IS AT FAULT AND HE IS GUILTY HE SHOULD FACE THE RULE AS THE COMMON MAN OR CITIZEN OF THIS COUNTRY . HE IS NOT ABOVE THE LAW.
IF THIS IS NOT DONE RANIL CAN FORGET ALL FUTURE VOTES FROM THE MIDDLE CLASS CITIZENS OF THIS COUNTRY.
/
helen / April 27, 2015
Ranil why are you preventing the Gotas arrest?What is the matter with you?didn’t you say all culprits will be arrested? I think you should leave all matters to the President and get to a side.You are going to be a stumbling block to the president,
/
Upul / April 27, 2015
Come on guys! We all know Ranil for the last 30 years. He likes to procrastinate and let the impatience of other’s do the hard work for him. It is very smart thinking and the less intellectual amongst us might not get his style.
With this report, Ranil has Gotabaya exactly where he needs him. GR can make all the statements he likes, he remains on the wrong side of the law. There is NO statutory limitation to starting a prosecution eventually. In the meantime, one more Rajapakse is compromised and can only talk, not do anything else.
Does anyone think Basil came to Sri Lanka to feel the sunshine? NO! His arrival is orchestrated and what Basil gives up as information is what the CID wants. As a US citizen Basil has enough problems coming his way from the US Revenue Service, for his undeclared foreign assets. US citizens have to pay taxes over $80,000 in Income, annually. Being MR’s brother does not get him pass on that one.
/
Wickramasiri / April 27, 2015
It is obvious that certain laws have been broken and proper procedure has not been followed. But there is national interest in this endeavour and that must not be lost sight of. Many were aware of this operation to provide security to shipping plying the waters past Somalia. It was known that intelligence agencies and trained navy commandos of U.S., Britain and others were involved along with Sri Lanka. The security cover was from the Indian ocean sea routes to the gulf of Oman. Many countries depended(and still depend) on this security. It cannot be abandoned without adverse consequences and loss of confidence in Sri Lanka.
I do not agree to the arrest of Gotabhaya Rajapaksa since in my opinion this operation has been done in good faith. The government must constitute a board of enquiry to determine the imperatives that led to the formation of this naval initiative and the consequences arising therefrom before meting out punishment.
/
Jerry. / April 27, 2015
RANIL IS A RATTLE SNAKE UNDER THE GRASS, HE IS HELPING MARA BECOUSE HE GOT ALL WHAT HE WANTED FROM MARA. i AM A BORN UNP SUPPORTER NOT ANY MORE BECOUSE OF THIS CROOKED B RANIL. HE WILL LOOSE HIS PREMIERSHIP & WILL BE ONLY A MP . RANIL WILL NOT BE A OPPOSITION LEADER ALSO. RANIL IS UNDER THE PAY OF MARA.
/
suki / April 27, 2015
Why not throw Gota to his own sharks!!!
Rest of the country will better off without him.
/
paul / April 28, 2015
You mean dreaded LTTE remnants and sympathisers?
/
Jim softy / April 27, 2015
These are witch hunts. These things did not hurt the country at all except the rule book.
On the other hand, Arjuna Mahendran has not done anything out of the rule book except favouring his son in law over the bank of Ceylon and except giving a him a law interest loan to buy bonds and giving a high interest on that bonds.
Ranil is digging for himself.
/
burt / April 27, 2015
Some thing this story does not add-up. The three charges based on Avant Garde Maritime Services operations are serious but the company is still functioning and for it to function you have to import and hold arms. Everything that happened before is still happening with a different set of directors appointed by the govt.
So has the govt sanctioned an illegal operation?
Having said that Ranil although a good person I don’t think is suitable to lead the country. After loosing so many elections I think he has lost confidence in himself and fear of making the wrong move is making him second guess himself. This is not good for a national leader.
Sri Lankans should think outside the box for a new leader but not a thief or anyone connected to thieves from both major parties.
/