Former Central Bank Governor Ajith Nivard Cabraal and three others were yesterday acquitted in a high-profile case over the Central Bank’s purchase of Greek bonds, after the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) withdrew the charges against them.

Colombo High Court Judge Mohamed CIABOC had earlier alleged that the officials, despite Greece being mired in a deep economic crisis, knowingly proceeded with the 2011 purchase of Greek treasury bills, causing losses exceeding Rs. 184 million to the government.

Defence counsel told court that the Supreme Court had already held the transaction to be lawful and carried out in line with Central Bank regulations and financial reporting standards. They argued that CIABOC’s attempt to pursue the matter as a corruption case for a second time was unwarranted.

With the indictment withdrawn, the High Court formally cleared Cabraal and the three co-accused of all charges.

By A.J.A. Abeynayake

Fort Magistrate Isuru Nettikumara on Tuesday ordered the police to arrest Attanayake Mudiyanselage Namal Kumara,  for allegedly  making derogatory remarks about Colombo Archbishop Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith, and produce him in court.

The order came after the suspect failed to appear when the case was taken up in open court. The Magistrate subsequently issued a warrant for his arrest.

The second suspect, Asela Nuwan Rajapaksa, was present in court when the matter was called.

Investigators told court that inquiries were continuing under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) Act.

Both suspects were earlier arrested and released on bail following a complaint lodged with the Colombo Crimes Division by Rev. Father Jude Krishantha, Director of National Catholic Social Communications.

By AJA Abeynayake

At the request of the government of Sri Lanka, the US military is working alongside the Sri Lankan Disaster Management Centre and Sri Lankan Armed Forces to provide foreign disaster relief to communities impacted by Cyclone Ditwah, which caused severe flooding, widespread displacement and tragic loss of life.

The forward presence and rapid response posture of United States Indo-Pacific Command enabled immediate coordination and a swift delivery of assistance to affected regions, underscoring the US commitment to Sri Lanka as a partner and friend during times of crisis.

Working closely with the Sri Lankan Disaster Management Centre, Sri Lankan Armed Forces, and the US Department of State, the US. military deployed a range of personnel, aircraft and logistical support capabilities to assist with lifesaving and life-sustaining humanitarian operations.

“Sri Lanka has shown remarkable resolve in the face of this disaster, and we are humbled to work alongside them,” said US Air Force Gen. Kevin Schneider, Pacific Air Forces commander. “We value our strong partnership with Sri Lanka as they lead these efforts and are committed to doing everything in our power to support the response. Together we are focused on providing lifesaving assistance to affected communities. Our regular joint training exercises with the Sri Lankan Armed Forces have built strong relationships and enhanced our ability to respond effectively to crises like Cyclone Ditwah.”

Since the declaration, US military and interagency partners have worked with Sri Lankan officials to assess needs, transport critical relief supplies and coordinate support to the nation’s most affected communities. These efforts highlight the enduring partnership between the United States and Sri Lanka and the shared commitment to regional resilience and humanitarian assistance.