Matara MC issues warrant for arrest of Basil

The Matara Magistrate’s Court has issued an arrest warrant for former Minister Basil Rajapaksa after he did not show up for a hearing in a financial crimes case. The warrant was issued by Matara Chief Magistrate Chaturanga Eranga Dissanayake because Rajapaksa was absent during a session related to a case brought by the Police Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID). This case involves the purchase of a one-and-a-half-acre plot of land at Brown’s Hill on Eliyakanda Road in Matara, allegedly bought with illegally obtained money. Rajapaksa's lawyer submitted medical documents to the court, claiming he is overseas receiving treatment for an illness, which prevented him from attending. However, the Magistrate noted that Rajapaksa had missed multiple previous hearings. After reviewing the defense's arguments, the court decided to issue a warrant for his arrest. The case will continue to be heard in the same court.