Kusum Priyadharshini Epa Weihana vs. Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption – SC Writ 03/2025-2025

In the matters of the Petitioners Kusum Priyadharshini Epa Weihana(wife of former minister Keheliya Rambukwella), Isuru Pulasthi Bandara Polgasdeniya, and Chandula Ramali Rambukwella v. the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC), under SC (Writ) 03/2025, SC (Writ) 04/2025, and SC (Writ) 05/2025, the Court addressed the issue of the legality and scope of ex parte freezing orders issued on assets under the Anti-Corruption Act, No. 09 of 2023.

The court held that ex parte freezing orders are permissible and essential investigative tools, reaffirming the principle that judicial oversight by the High Court is required to ensure ‘sufficient reasons’ for their confirmation and extension. This decision relied on Sections 53, 42, and 112 of the Anti-Corruption Ac