Seylan Bank says had good relations with Saliya Perera

Seylan Bank said yesterday it has had a good relationship with Saliya Perera, the Shareholder Director of Lanka Ashok Leyland, who passed away on Sunday after a heart attack.

A spokesman for the bank responding to the Daily FT’s exclusive article yesterday, said that Perera had been reminded about settling dues since 2009, whilst not only Lanka Ashok but several other stocks in his portfolio had been divested as and when required.

“We have followed all necessary procedures with regard to Perera’s portfolio and banking relations. He did continue to bank with us even after the part sale of Lanka Ashok Leyland stake. He has been aware of the commitments of both parties and we have had a cordial relationship overall,” the Seylan Bank spokesman added.

On 15 February Seylan Bank, to recover defaulted dues, sold a 12% stake in Ashok Leyland held by Perera out of a total 27.85% stake for Rs. 449.5 million or Rs. 1,000 per share, down by Rs. 650 or 21% from the stock’s previous closing on 21 January.

The 50-year old Perera, as reported in Daily FT yesterday, had a history of heart ailment and died on Sunday night after a fresh attack and efforts to resuscitate him at a private hospital failed.