The Fort Magistrate lifted the travel ban on Trade Minister Nalin Fernando, temporarily enabling him to travel overseas.

The Magistrate impounded the passport of Minister Nalin Fernando for allegedly misusing Sathosa funds while importing sports equipment during the 2015 – Presidential Election.

Fernando sought permission to temporary lift his travel ban.

Fernando informed the court that he expects to attend a seminar organized by World Trade Organization.

Accordingly, Fort Magistrate Thilina Gamage ordered the release of his passport, permitting the Minister to travel abroad until June 30.

The FCID that conducted initial investigations had filed a B report naming three suspects, including former Sports Minister Mahindananda Aluthgamage and former Sathosa Chairman Nalin Fernando as suspects.

The FCID filed this case against three suspects over a fraud said to have taken place when importing sports equipment to the sports clubs, including 14,000 carrom boards and 11,000 draught boards during the previous regime between September 1, 2014, and December 31.