Former Minister Rishad Bathiudeen, detained in relation to the Easter Sunday attacks and death of a 16-year-old domestic worker, was released on bail on Thursday.
Colombo Fort Magistrate, Priyanatha Liyanage, ordered his release on two sureties of Rs 5,000,000 each. In addition, Magistrate Rajindra Jayasuriy allowed his release on two sureties of Rs. 1,000,000 each, in connection with the death and sexual assault of domestic worker Hishalini Jude Kumar. Bathiudeen was also banned from leaving the country.
In April, Bathiudeen was arrested under the controversial Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) for allegedly aiding the Easter Sunday bombers . Following his arrest, members of the All Ceylon Makkal Congress protested in Mannar , demanding his release.
While still in custody, Bathiudeen was named the fifth suspect, alongside his wife, father-in-law and brother-in-law in the case of Hishalini. The victim, Hishalini, had worked for MP Bathiudeen's residence prior to her death. Senior Deputy Inspector General Ajith Rohana said the girl was hired as a domestic worker at the MP's residence at 15-years-old. She was admitted to the Colombo National Hospital in early July after setting herself on fire . She then died 12 days later from the injuries caused by the fire.
Bathiudeen's brother-in-law , wife and father-in-law were all granted bail in August.
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