Major denies Malaka assault

• Files affidavit agreeing to an amicable settlement

By Lakmal Sooriyagoda

Filing an affidavit before court, the Army Major who was injured during a brawl at Hilton Residence in Colombo informed Court that neither Malaka Silva nor Rehan Wijeratne assaulted him and as such he was willing to arrive at an amicable settlement.

Filing a motion before Colombo Fort Magistrate Kanishka Wijeratne, Counsel Dinesh D. Dodamgoda appearing for the aggrieved party informed that his client Major Chandana Pradeep Susena had decided to reach a settlement in connection with the incident with the consent of both parties. According to the affidavit attested by Commissioner of Oaths R.S.A. Kottelawala, the complainant stated that though Silva and Wijeratne were present at the hotel, they had not been involved in assaulting him and had not even aided or abetted the committing of the offence. He said other people who were at the hotel may have assaulted him.

He further said that the lawyers of the two parties would discuss the settlement.

Furthermore, the Major said though he had alleged that his gold chain had been robbed by someone at the hotel, the chain had been subsequently recovered from his residence.

Filing a motion, Counsel Dodamgoda moved Court that the case be called on Thursday (20) and notice be issued on the complainant party to appear before Court.

Having considered the submissions, the Magistrate ordered the Court Registrar to issue notice on Major Chandana Pradeep Susena through the Commanding Officer attached to the Army Hospital to appear before Court on 24 September.