The Colombo District Court today dismissed with costs a case filed by businessman Dilith Jayaweera against BBC Sinhala Service.
Jayaweera had filed a defamation case, stating that an interview broadcasted by the BBC Sinhala Service with TNL Network (PVT) Limited Chairman Shan Wickremesinghe in October 2011 and an article reported on the same, had defamed him.
In a letter of demand to the BBC Sinhala Service, Jayaweera had said the interview had claimed his involvement in money laundering, making money through unlawful, illegal, and dishonest means, drug trafficking, owns or leases a hotel on a partnership with Duminda Silva in Colombo, and issued death threats to Wickremesinghe and Sudantha Jayasundera.
Jayaweera thereafter filed a case in Court in February 2012, stating the interview had defamed him and sought 10 million Sterling Pounds in damages.
However, the case was dismissed with costs by Colombo District Court judge Rashantha Godawela today after a prolonged trial.
Businessman Dilith Jayaweera told NewsWire that he will appeal against the Colombo High Court’s decision. (NewsWire)