Kapila Chandrasena death inquiry: key testimonies recorded
21-May-2026.
The Colombo Crime Division submitted the supplementary investigation report into the death of former SriLankan Airlines CEO Kapila Chandrasena on May 19 before Colombo Fort Magistrate Pasan Amarasena. The CCD informed court that although CCTV cameras at the residence where Chandrasena stayed were operational, no footage had been recorded.
During the third day of the magisterial inquiry, CCD officers presented several key facts before court. They stated that the residence of Aravinda de Silva, where Chandrasena died, had two parking spaces on the lower floor through which entry into the house was possible. However, based on current investigations, there is no confirmation that any outsider entered the premises through that route.
The officer further stated that 11 unidentified tablets were recovered from the scene of death. He requested court permission to send the tablets along with the deceased’s blood samples to the Government Analyst for examination. Approval was also sought to forward the DVR equipment found at the scene for analysis.
The Magistrate questioned whether CCTV footage from the residence had been examined. In response, CCD officials stated that although CCTV systems were operating, no footage had been recorded. Following this, the court ordered that both DVR units be sent to the Government Analyst. An engineer was also produced in court to examine the CCTV system.
The Magistrate further inquired whether statements had been recorded from two key sureties who had come to the residence to secure bail for Chandrasena. Police officials stated it had been difficult to obtain their statements. The Magistrate questioned why, if they were key witnesses, they had not been compelled to appear in court.
Police later informed the court that the two sureties were currently in remand custody. The Magistrate observed that obtaining statements would be easier in that case and noted that a court order could have been obtained for the purpose.
