Matara Magistrate’s Court was informed on Friday that former Minister Basil Rajapaksa had reserved air tickets to travel to Sri Lanka and later cancelled them, despite submitting medical reports claiming he was unfit for air travel.
Deputy Solicitor General Lakmini Girihagama told court there was a serious suspicion that Rajapaksa was deliberately avoiding appearing before court, pointing to inconsistencies in the medical documents submitted on his behalf.
The case relates to allegations that Rs. 50 million, said to have been obtained through unlawful means, was used to purchase one and a half acres of land at Browns Hill in Matara. Four individuals, including Rajapaksa, have been indicted in connection with the matter.
Although the first and second suspects appeared in court, Rajapaksa and the fourth suspect, Ayoma Galappatti, were absent. President’s Counsel Anil Silva, appearing for Rajapaksa, submitted medical reports stating that his client suffers from “Left Side Sciatica” and is therefore unfit for air travel.
However, the Deputy Solicitor General noted that previous medical reports had cited a neck injury from a fall, yet X-ray reports showed no fractures. She further revealed that despite a medical recommendation dated September 14, 2025 stating Rajapaksa should avoid flying for six months, he had booked airline tickets to travel between November 18 and 21, before later cancelling them.
Court also heard that an airline medical clearance form indicated Rajapaksa was capable of travelling with assistance and did not require special seating or oxygen support, further raising concerns over the credibility of the medical claims.
The Magistrate ordered Rajapaksa’s legal team to submit a detailed medical report and warned that failure to comply could result in action regarding the forfeiture of bail. Sureties were also instructed to ensure the suspect appears in court.
The case was postponed to May 22, 2026. (Newswire)