The Colombo Magistrate’s Court today (20) ordered the release of former Skills Development and Vocational Training Minister Piyasena Gamage on bail, following his arrest by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption over alleged misuse of authority.

Chief Magistrate Asanga S. Bodaragama released Gamage on two personal bail bonds of Rs. 2 million each, while also imposing a foreign travel ban and warning him against influencing witnesses.

Officials from the Bribery Commission told the court today that in 2015, while serving as minister, Gamage recruited 134 minor employees to the Department of Technical Education and Training exclusively from the Galle District, bypassing approved procedures. Investigations revealed that the recruits were political supporters.

The Commission further alleged that Gamage intervened to cancel the disciplinary transfer of N. Yogarajah, Director of the Jaffna Technical College, thereby granting him undue advantage. Officials argued that these actions amounted to corruption through abuse of power.

The case has been adjourned until August 21, with the Commission directed to present progress of the investigation at the next hearing. (Newswire)

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