Apologies Issued as CID Initiates Money Laundering Probe: Pastor Jerome Fernando Granted Strict Bail Conditions
Fort Magistrate Thilina Gamage has ordered the release of Pastor Jerome Fernando, who was remanded over controversial statements made during a Sunday sermon, under strict bail conditions. President’s Counsel Anuja Premaratne, representing Pastor Fernando, issued an apology for the contentious remarks and argued against charging his client under the ICCRP Act. A legal team led by President’s Counsel Anuja Premaratne presented extensive submissions, securing the release of the suspect with stringent warnings to maintain religious harmony.
The Magistrate emphasized that Pastor Jerome should refrain from making any statements that could disturb religious harmony in the future. The bail conditions include a release with two sureties of Rs. 1 million each, with one surety required to be a close relative of the suspect. President’s Counsel Anuja Premaratne assured that, upon bail, they would withdraw the application filed in the High Court and the Court of Appeal.
While reviewing a one-hour video presented by the CID, the Magistrate noted that the statements did not appear to fall under the clauses of the ICCPR Act. However, the CID informed the court of their intent to file charges against the suspect under the Money Laundering Act. The investigators revealed ongoing scrutiny of 10 accounts linked to the suspect and sought court orders for relevant private banks to cooperate.
The CID disclosed that statements were recorded from the Colombo Archbishop’s office, emphasizing that the controversial remarks were unrelated to the Catholic religion. Alleging a substantial money transfer to multiple accounts, the CID pledged a comprehensive investigation into the financial transactions, covering 639 bank accounts. The court directed the issuance of orders related to the investigation.
Additionally, the police reported a filed case in Mt. Lavinia Court regarding money laundering, and the CID was instructed to submit a detailed report in the coming days. As Pastor Jerome Fernando navigates the legal repercussions, the incident underscores the delicate balance between freedom of expression and maintaining religious harmony in society.
Suspect Arrested Following Complaint by Buddhist Information Centre; Journalists Obstructed After Pastor's Release on Bail
The arrest of Pastor Jerome Fernando, prompted by a complaint from Buddhist Information Centre Director General Ven. Angulugalle Sri Jinananda Thera, marked the culmination of an extensive investigation, as revealed by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). The ongoing scrutiny into the suspect's activities reflects the seriousness with which authorities are approaching the case.
After being remanded for making statements that could disrupt religious harmony, Pastor Jerome Fernando was granted bail, a decision that triggered a troubling incident outside the Fort Magistrate’s Court. A sizable group claiming to be his followers gathered at the court premises, obstructing journalists who sought to cover the proceedings.
As Pastor Fernando was transported to the court in a prison vehicle, the group entered the premises and actively hindered journalists from documenting the case. The obstructors not only prevented the taking of photographs but also issued threats against recording his departure from the court in a car following the granting of bail.
The incident highlights the challenges faced by media professionals in their pursuit of providing accurate and timely information. It underscores the need for safeguarding press freedom and ensuring that journalists can perform their duties without intimidation or interference, even in emotionally charged situations. As the legal proceedings unfold, the incident outside the court raises concerns about the delicate balance between individual rights and the responsibilities of those claiming allegiance to a particular cause.
As the legal saga surrounding Pastor Jerome Fernando unfolds, the arrest prompted by a complaint from the Buddhist Information Centre underscores the gravity of the situation. The ongoing investigations by the Criminal Investigation Department reflect a commitment to thoroughly examine the allegations against the suspect.
The troubling incident outside the Fort Magistrate’s Court, where a group claiming to be Pastor Fernando's followers obstructed journalists after his release on bail, brings attention to the challenges faced by media professionals. The episode emphasizes the importance of upholding press freedom, allowing journalists to carry out their responsibilities without intimidation or interference.
In navigating this delicate balance between individual rights and the broader societal implications of statements that could disrupt religious harmony, it becomes imperative to protect the integrity of legal proceedings and ensure a fair and unbiased investigation. As the case develops, it serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding freedom of expression, legal responsibilities, and the need for a robust and impartial judicial process.