Chairman of the Court of Appeal, Justice Rohantha Abeysuriya, emphasized that while it is crucial for Customs to collect tax revenue for the national economy, the interests of vehicle buyers and importing companies must also be considered. The judge instructed the petitioner to cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation.
The statement was made during a petition filed by John Keells CG Ltd., seeking an order to release its detained vehicles. Additional Solicitor General Sumathi Dharmawardena, representing Customs, submitted evidence and noted that the vehicles could be released on bail subject to certain conditions, stressing that the petitioner must assist with the investigations. A report on vehicle inspection scanners imported by the company is expected to be submitted to the court next Monday.
President’s Counsel Farsana Jamil, representing the petitioner, argued that the manner in which Customs has detained the vehicles violates the law. Despite lengthy discussions, no agreement was reached on the release of the vehicles on bail.
The Additional Solicitor General informed the court that an update on the possibility of settling the case will be provided on 28 October.
