Former Parliamentarian Duminda Dissanayake has been officially released by the Mount Lavinia Magistrate’s Court in connection with the highly publicized investigation into a gold-plated T-56 assault rifle discovered in a luxury apartment at Havelock City. The ruling came earlier today (July 29), bringing a temporary close to a case that had stirred public intrigue and legal scrutiny.
Mount Lavinia Magistrate Chathurika De Silva delivered the verdict after reviewing the evidence presented by investigators. The court determined that there was a lack of both direct and circumstantial evidence linking the former MP to the ownership of the firearm, resulting in an order to release him from the case.
Dissanayake was initially arrested on May 23 following the discovery of the firearm, which had sparked nationwide interest due to its unusual, gold-plated design and high-profile location. He was remanded in custody after being produced before the Mount Lavinia Magistrate’s Court.
However, after legal representations were made on his behalf, the court granted him conditional bail on June 14 pending further investigation. With today’s ruling, Dissanayake’s legal team has successfully argued for his full release based on the absence of credible evidence.
The firearm, a modified T-56 assault rifle plated in gold, was found under suspicious circumstances, triggering debate over illegal arms possession and the lavish lifestyles of certain public figures. Despite speculation, authorities failed to establish a clear connection between the weapon and the former MP, prompting the court’s decision.
Legal analysts noted that while the case has closed for now, the controversy surrounding the incident may continue to generate political and public attention. Meanwhile, no other individuals have been officially charged in connection with the weapon, and the origin of the gold-plated firearm remains under investigation.
