Magistrate recalls warrant of arrest on Pathum Kerner.

August 24, 2022

The Colombo Chief Magistrate's Court today recalled the arrest warrant issued against social media activist Dr Pathum Kerner after he surrendered to the court.

On August 23, Colombo Additional Magistrate Harshana Kekunawala issued a warrant for the arrest of Pathum Kerner for not being present in court in connection with a case filed against him by the Colombo Crimes Division.

Pathum Kerner surrendered to the court alone with President’s Counsel Rienzie Arseculeratne and Counsel Udara Muhandiramge through a motion filed in court.

Defence counsel submitted to the court that their client was unable to attend court on Tuesday (23) due to a misunderstanding regarding the next date of hearing.

Kerner apologised to the court and gave the undertaking to appear in court on a regular basis. Additional Magistrate Harshana Kekunawala advised the suspect not to evade court and a further magisterial inquiry was fixed for November 29.

Pathum Kerner was arrested for committing offences under the Public Property Act during a violent protest held near Polduwa Junction on July 13. He is currently out on bail.