The order was issued today (23) by Colombo Additional Magistrate D.J. Premaratne following a complaint filed by the Department of Wildlife Conservation.
The suspect, identified as Nethmi Hiranya, is accused of handling a protected species in a harmful manner after she reportedly danced with a python around her neck during the event. Wildlife officials informed court that she had earlier been instructed to appear before the department to give a statement, but had failed to do so.
Officials further stated that the incident took place during a function organised as part of an Avurudu Prince and Princess competition in Colombo, and that the python involved is a protected animal under the Wildlife and Flora Protection Ordinance, making the act an offence under the law.
After considering the submissions, the Magistrate ordered that the suspect be arrested and produced before court.
Court also granted permission to record a statement from the event organiser, beautician Chandimal Jayasinghe, in connection with the incident.
