The driver of the bus involved in the fatal accident at Jaya Ganga, Thalawa — which claimed the life of a school student and left nearly 40 others injured — has been remanded until November 18.
The order was issued by Thambuttegama Magistrate Gayathri Hettiarachchi, who also directed the Thambuttegama Police Traffic Division to continue investigations and submit a progress report to the court.
Meanwhile, the driver’s assistant, arrested in connection with the incident, was released on two surety bonds of Rs. 200,000 each.
Police told the court that the accident occurred due to the bus driver’s careless and reckless driving. However, defence lawyers argued that the driver had swerved to avoid a collision with a motorcyclist, and his quick action prevented the bus from plunging into the river.
While noting that the driver was not under the influence of alcohol and held a valid license, the lawyers sought bail. The Magistrate, however, rejected the request and ordered the driver to be remanded until the 18th.
