Social media activist Dharshana Handungoda who was arrested over posting controversial views on social media platforms, was enlarged on bail.

The order was issued by Colombo Fort Magistrate Thilina Gamage yesterday. The suspect was released on two sureties of Rs.500, 000 each.

The Criminal Investigations Department informed the Magistrate that the suspect was arrested at the Bandaranaike International Airport, upon arrival from Dubai.

The CID further told the Magistrate that the suspect was summoned to the Criminal Investigations Department to record a statement regarding the controversial statement that he had made in front of Temple Trees on May 9.

“It appears that the suspect’s statement was the reason for the incident that took place on May 9,” the CID added.

Senior Counsel Chaminda Athukorala appearing on behalf of the suspect stated that his client had been summoned by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) unofficially without a properly written document.

He further noted that his client sent an email to the Criminal Investigations Department mentioning his arrival to the country. He also pointed out that the charges filed against his client did not fall under the Computer Crimes Act. The Magistrate fixed further inquiries for May 17.