Bail for Suspended IGP Deshabandu : Public Outcry Intensifies

In a dramatic development at the Matara Magistrate's Court, suspended Inspector General of Police (IGP) Deshabandu Tennakoon was granted bail despite his prior attempts to evade arrest and claims of providing false information regarding his whereabouts. The court released Tennakoon on two sureties of Rs. 1 million each, following a lengthy period of remand custody since March 19, after he surrendered in relation to the fatal shooting incident that occurred outside the W 15 hotel in Weligama on December 31, 2023.

The incident, which resulted in the tragic death of an officer from the Colombo Crimes Division, had initially led to Tennakoon's suspension. However, his decision to evade arrest for nearly 20 days raised eyebrows, as the public questioned the legality and ethics behind his actions. Tennakoon eventually surrendered to court, but many were left disillusioned by the events that followed.

One key moment that stirred controversy was when the Magistrate had explicitly refused the request from Tennakoon's legal team to bring his vehicle to court. However, in an unexpected turn of events, Tennakoon's BMW was driven into the court premises. In what can only be described as a grand departure, he left the court surrounded by a security squad, defying the Magistrate's direct instructions.

This blatant violation of court orders has sparked widespread public outrage. Social media activists have called for Tennakoon to be remanded until the completion of his trial, emphasizing the apparent disregard for the legal process displayed by the suspended IGP. Many argue that his actions send a dangerous message, undermining the rule of law and reinforcing the perception of impunity for those in powerful positions.

All eyes are now on the upcoming court hearings and how the Additional Solicitor General, Dileepa Pieris, will present the matter to the court. Pieris has been taking a tough stance against Tennakoon, and his handling of this case could determine the future of the suspended IGP and the credibility of the judicial system in Sri Lanka.

As the legal battle unfolds, the public eagerly awaits the next court hearing, hoping that justice will prevail and the appropriate legal measures will be taken to ensure accountability for Tennakoon’s actions.