Two members of the Uva Pradeshiya Saba charged with causing a loss of Rs. 662,168.25 to the State in the procurement of machinery to the PC faced Colombo Chief Magistrate Nishantha Hapuarachi yesterday.

The accused in this case are Samaraweera Weerawanni and A. M. Buddhadasa. The case is sequel to the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruptions receiving an annonymous letter alleging that equipment consisting two compacting equipment and a motor grader were purchased by the Uva PC at a loss of Rs. 662,168.25.

Attorney-at-Law Anil Silva, appearing for the accused, in his submissions raised the issue of seeking the AG’s advice in all similar cases. The Magistrate directed the prosecution to consult the Commission and inform the Court.

The case will be taken up again on December 3, 2008).