Release of Charles Gnanakone :

Notice issued on IGP, CCD director
 

by Wasantha Ramanayake

The Appeal Court issued notice on the IGP and the Colombo Crimes Division Director in the Habeas Corpus application seeking the release of Charles Gnanakone who had been arrested in connection with the assassination of former Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar.

The Bench comprised Justices S. I. Imam and Ranjit Silva.

Petitioner Daniel de Smet, an acquaintance of Charles, filed the application. He stated his colleague Charles was illegally arrested by a group of six men in the wee hours of October 10, at his residence at Dehiwala.

Petitioner Daniel cited Charles Gnanakone, presently detained by the Colombo Crime Division, its Director SSP Sarath Lugoda and the IGP as respondents.

The petitioner stated that first respondent Charles Gnanakone was an Australian and a businessman, who had actively involved in the management of "Humanitarian Rehabilitation Services." The petitioner stated that to "the best of his knowledge" Charles Gnanakone had not committed any criminal offence to be arrested and detained. He also stated his colleague was a chronic diabetic and heart patient.

The petitioner sought an Order directing the second and the third respondents to produce Charles Gnanakone before the Court to be legally dealt with and order his release.

Faiz Musthapha PC appeared for the petitioner.

The notice would be returnable on December 5.