Colombo Additional Magistrate Lahiru Silva ordered the remand of two individuals who appeared in court as sureties for former SriLankan Airlines Chief Executive Officer Kapila Chandrasena, who was released on bail after being held in remand custody.

The two suspects were remanded until May 13 after it was revealed that they had obtained money to act as sureties on behalf of Chandrasena.

Chandrasena is facing allegations of receiving a USD 2 million bribe in connection with the purchase of Airbus aircraft for SriLankan Airlines.

Police told the court that the two individuals, identified as Mohammad Rizwan and Mohammad Irshan from Sanchee Arachchiwatta in Hulftsdorp, had no personal connection to Chandrasena and were paid Rs. 15,000 each to act as sureties.

The Officer-in-Charge of the Crime Branch of the Keselwatta Police Station, Sub Inspector Anuruddha, stated that the suspects were arrested after court officials raised concerns and verified their Grama Niladhari certificates.

Authorities further informed the court that under the Bail Act, the individuals would not be able to produce the accused in court when required, given the lack of any relationship between them.

During questioning, the suspects reportedly said they agreed to act as sureties at the request of two individuals named Deva and Tissa.

Police also noted that the actions of the suspects may amount to an offence under the Bail Act No. 30 of 1997.

After considering the facts, Magistrate Lahiru Silva directed police to submit a detailed report on the suspects and the verification process of their Grama Niladhari certificates, while ordering that they remain in remand custody until May 13.