The Kaduwela Magistrate’s Court yesterday (Nov.12) slapped an overseas travel ban on 05 employees of Sampath Bank, with regard to a financial fraud that had allegedly taken place at the Talahena branch of the bank.
The CID had urged the court to impose an overseas travel ban on the relevant officers, pointing out that it is necessary to obtain statements from them.
Taking up the case, the Kaduwela Magistrate also ordered to hold the former credit officer of the branch – Sachika Alwis, in remand custody until Dec. 20.
It was also revealed that the former manager at the Talahena branch – Ms. Thanuja Muthukumarana, has fled the country.
The travel ban was imposed on Ms. Thanuja Muthukumarana as well as on Deputy Manager – Lakna Jayasekara, Senior Manager (Debt. Recovery) – Aruna Jinadasa, Deputy Manager – Gayani Vidanapathiranage and credit officer – Hirantha Kodikara.
The magistrate issued the aforementioned order after considering facts presented by a panel of lawyers led by President’s Counsel Upul Jayasuriya, who appeared on behalf of the aggrieved party.
The CID had initiated this investigation over a complaint lodged by globally renowned traditional medical practitioner Kelum Harsha Kamal Weerasinghe, who alleges that the bank had defrauded a sum of Rs.77.98 million from him.