Gamini Saman Liyanage et al. vs Hon. Attorney General – CA 109-111/2011-2023

In the case between the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka (Complainant) and Gamini Saman Liyanage, Hewa Pedige Sarathchandra, and Deegoda Gamage Kithsiri (Accused), the court examined whether the evidence sustained the charges of conspiracy, abduction, rape, and murder beyond a reasonable doubt. It was held that the evidence supported a murder charge against the 1st appellant, but was insufficient to maintain the convictions of the 2nd and 3rd appellants. The court emphasized the requirement for reliable and sufficient evidence, strict adherence to the presumption of innocence, and proper jury instructions regarding circumstantial evidence. Reference was made to legal standards governing the evaluation of evidence in criminal trials, reaffirming the principle that the burden lies