Thilini Priyamali : a case of trial by media?

Continuous media publications could adversely affect the rights of Thilini Priyamali. Thilini is currently held in remand custody in connection with alleged financial misappropriation incidents, defence counsel informed the court today. Attorney-at-law Dasun Nagahawatta appearing for Thilini Priyamali alleged that unsubstantiated allegations are being levelled against his client by mainstream media regarding an ongoing court case and it would adversely affect court proceedings as well. An attorney brought to the attention of the court a TV program where a President's Counsel expressed his opinion on the Thilini Proyamali case contrary to professional ethics. He said his client had not been found guilty of any crimes, as she is a suspect in a pending investigation. Counsel alleged that a Sinhala language newspaper has come to a premature conclusion that his client possessed money generated by drug trafficking. Defence Counsel moved the Court that an appropriate order be issued in this regard. This is in order to avoid causing any prejudice to the court proceedings still pending in the court. However, the magistrate stated that he had no authority to control the behaviour of the media. He further maintained that it is the responsibility of the defence to choose an appropriate forum to take action over an alleged breach of professional ethics. Filing a further report in Court, the CID said a complainant named Kamal Hassan had given 1kg of gold jewellery to Priyamali and her business partner Isuru Bandara and they were recovered from a jeweller in Ja-Ela. Meanwhile, the CID informed the Court that they have so far received 14 complaints against Thilini Priyamali and raised objections to releasing the suspects on bail. Magistrates decided to reject bail applications filed on behalf of four suspects including Thilini Priyamali, Isuru Bandara and Ven. Borelle Sirisumana Thera on the basis of the possibility of rising public disquiet once the suspects were granted bail. They were further remanded until November 16. The second suspect was represented by Sarath Kongahage PC. President’s Counsel Maithri Gunaratne appeared for the aggrieved party.