Pahanthiyage Predeep Chandana Peiris v. Attorney General – 2451/2005-2013

In the case between the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka (Attorney General) and Pahanthiyage Predeep Chandana Peiris, the court examined whether the conviction and life sentence for possession and trafficking of 17.4 grams of heroin under the Poisons, Opium, and Dangerous Drugs Ordinance No. 13 of 1984 were justified. The court held that the conviction and sentence should be affirmed, upholding the principle that appellate courts should not interfere with trial court findings on matters of credibility or fact, provided there is evidentiary support. Reliance was placed on relevant Supreme Court authorities and statutes, underscoring that minor inconsistencies in witness testimony do not warrant overturning a conviction. The decision reinforces judicial deference to the trial court