Social activist Namal Kumara has been remanded until January 15, 2025, following an order issued by the Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court. The decision was made after his presentation before the court earlier today.
The arrest stems from allegations related to an audio recording circulating on social media, which is said to defame the Archbishop of Colombo, His Eminence Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith. According to Police Media Spokesman Senior Superintendent of Police Buddhika Manathunga, the investigation was initiated following a complaint lodged by the Catholic Church with the Colombo Crimes Division (CCD).
The Catholic Church requested the CCD to probe the circulation of the controversial audio, which they claimed was damaging to the Cardinalās reputation. Subsequent investigations led to the arrest of Namal Kumara when he appeared at the CCD today (January 1) to provide a statement.
This case has drawn significant public attention, with authorities emphasizing their commitment to addressing instances of defamation and ensuring the protection of individualsā reputations, especially those in religious and community leadership roles.