⚖️ Ex-Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake Granted Bail in NLB Corruption Case

• Case Overview: NDF MP and former Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake was arrested by CIABOC and granted bail by Colombo Additional Magistrate Liyan Warushavithana. Released on two sureties of Rs. 1 million each, with a travel ban imposed. • Allegations & Impact: Charges filed under Section 70 of the Bribery Act regarding the illegal recruitment of three contract employees (two Coordinating Officers, one Management Assistant) using National Lotteries Board (NLB) funds during his tenure (Jan 2015 – May 2017). CIABOC alleges the recruits performed no NLB duties and were instead deployed for personal political activities, causing a financial loss to the state. • Key Proceedings & Submissions: • CIABOC sought remand citing non-compliance after four skipped notices, evasion, and risks of witness tampering alongside the first suspect (ex-NLB Chairman Shyamala Perera). • Defense Counsel cited severe health issues (5 cardiac stents, diabetes, cellulitis) and noted the co-suspect was already on bail, leading to the court's release order.