Dual Citizen to Be Arrested on Arrival Over Corruption Allegations

Colombo court imposes travel ban and arrest order on former Fisheries Harbour Corporation Chairman accused of misusing public office

The Colombo Chief Magistrate’s Court has issued a travel ban and arrest warrant for Sudarshana Fernando, the former Chairman of the Ceylon Fisheries Harbour Corporation, over allegations of corruption and abuse of power. The court order comes following submissions by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC), which is currently conducting a probe into Fernando’s activities during his tenure.

Chief Magistrate Thanuja Lakmali Jayatunga directed the Department of Immigration and Emigration to arrest Fernando upon his arrival in Sri Lanka and produce him before the Bribery Commission without delay. The order was issued after it was revealed that Fernando had left for the United Kingdom despite having been previously summoned by the Commission for questioning.

Corruption Allegations and Bypassed Protocols

According to CIABOC officials, Fernando is suspected of misusing his official position by appointing several of his close associates to senior positions within the Fisheries Harbour Corporation. These appointments were allegedly made without adhering to proper recruitment procedures, which CIABOC asserts is a violation of anti-corruption laws.

“The suspect has deliberately bypassed government hiring protocols to promote individuals with whom he had personal ties,” a CIABOC representative told the court.

The Bribery Commission believes the alleged actions not only constitute corruption but also undermined the integrity of a vital state institution responsible for managing the country's fishing harbour infrastructure.

Suspect Flees to UK, Holds Dual Citizenship

Court documents reveal that Fernando was formally summoned to appear before the Bribery Commission but departed to the United Kingdom before complying. CIABOC informed the court that he holds dual citizenship in Sri Lanka and the UK, raising concerns about the possibility of evading legal proceedings.

Given the suspect's absence and risk of non-compliance, CIABOC requested the court to issue a detention directive to the Controller of Immigration and Emigration. Magistrate Jayatunga granted the request, instructing officials to apprehend Fernando immediately upon entry into Sri Lanka.

Travel Ban and Future Proceedings

The Magistrate further imposed a travel ban to ensure that Fernando, once returned, cannot leave the country again during the course of the investigation and potential prosecution. The court emphasized the need for prompt enforcement of the order, highlighting the seriousness of the charges.

Legal analysts say the case underscores the growing efforts by Sri Lankan authorities to tackle public sector corruption, especially within state-owned enterprises. CIABOC has stepped up its investigations in recent months, following mounting public pressure to hold high-ranking officials accountable.

Next Steps

The arrest order remains active, and immigration authorities have been placed on high alert. Should Fernando return to Sri Lanka, he is expected to be immediately detained and brought before the Bribery Commission for formal questioning and potential legal action.

The Bribery Commission has not disclosed whether extradition proceedings will be considered if Fernando fails to return voluntarily.