Attorney General vs. Premathilake Balasuriya – CA HCC 98/2018-2021

In the case between the Attorney General (State) and Premathilake Balasuriya, the court addressed whether the conviction for the murder of Kosmulgodage Lional, based exclusively on circumstantial evidence, was sustainable. It was held that the prosecution did not establish beyond reasonable doubt that the accused was the only individual with the opportunity and means to commit the crime. The principle reaffirmed was that circumstantial evidence must exclude every reasonable hypothesis except that of the accused’s guilt. Reliance was placed on existing legal standards around circumstantial evidence, emphasizing that where such evidence leaves room for reasonable doubt, an acquittal is warranted.

Devika Abeyratne J. — Upon detailed review of the facts, evidence, and the trial court’s findi