Former minister Patali was in the driver's seat

Evidence examination commenced before the Colombo High Court today in the case filed by the Attorney General against three defendants, including former Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka, over allegations of reckless driving and concealing evidence regarding a 2016 collision in Rajagiriya.

The first prosecution witness, Gayan Vinodaka, testified that he pursued the vehicle after bystanders pointed it out following the incident. He told the court that after overtaking and stopping the vehicle with his motorcycle, he attempted to assault the driver. According to the witness, the individual in the driving seat stated, "I am Patali Champika."

The witness subsequently identified Patali Champika Ranawaka in open court from the dock when questioned by the Deputy Solicitor General.