Additional Solicitor General Rohantha Abeysuriya, representing the Attorney General, revealed a disturbing plot against the former Director of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Shani Abeysekera in court,. Intelligence agencies have reportedly uncovered information suggesting an orchestrated attempt to assassinate Abeysekera by causing a deliberate accident during his travels.
The revelation came during the consideration of a writ petition filed by Shani Abeysekera, seeking a court directive to ensure his safety in light of these threats. The hearing, presided over by the President of the Appeal Court, Nissanka Bandula Karunaratne, and Justice Vikum Kaluarachchi, delved into the alarming details surrounding the case.
Previously, the court had mandated the National Authority for the Protection of Victims of Crimes and Witnesses to submit a report on the nature of the threats against Abeysekera. Today, Additional Solicitor General Abeysuriya informed the court that the Intelligence Division of the authority has provided a detailed report on the threats.
However, concerns were raised by President's Counsel Upul Jayasuriya, representing Shani Abeysekera, regarding the adequacy of the protection currently afforded to his client. He pointed out that only an old motorcycle and three police officers have been deployed for the former CID chief's protection. Despite a directive from the National Authority to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) for enhanced protection, it has allegedly not been fulfilled.
After careful consideration of the presented facts, the Appellate Court bench has scheduled a follow-up hearing for December 14. The court aims to issue an appropriate order concerning the petition and address the pressing matter of Shani Abeysekera's safety.
