When the case into the attack on Japan Lanka Autoland of Hospital Road, Kalubowila came up for hearing, Nugegoda Chief Magistrate Wasantha Jinadasa said that a settlement could be reached only on the basis of a clear understanding and agreement of both parties involved.

The accused in this case, Sudath Aloysius, is charged with storming Japan Lanka Autoland, assaulting and injuring Harold Lindsay White, a co-owner, and also causing extensive damage to property belonging to the company.

The incident had taken place on or around August 25, 2007, and the damages caused are estimated at one million rupees, according to charges filed by the Kohuwala police.

The main complainant Harold Lindsay White and another witness were present when the case was taken up for hearing again at the Gangodawila Magistrate’s Court recently.

It had transpired during the proceedings that the accused Sudath Aloysius had earlier been arrested by the Indian police on a narcotics offense and held in prison there for several years.

Police told court that he had been released after appealing to a higher court.