Supreme Court imposes travel ban on five in medicine import case

The five respondents have been granted bail by Sri Lanka's Supreme Court in connection with their involvement in the importation of substandard medicines, though they remain subject to strict conditions. The bail order stipulates that the individuals must settle the full amount of compensation previously ordered by the court, with the travel restrictions serving as an additional enforcement mechanism.

Former Minister Keheliya Rambukwella is among those affected by the court's decision. The case, which came to the court's attention in March, centres on the importation and distribution of medicines that failed to meet required quality standards, raising significant public health concerns.

The imposition of a foreign travel ban represents a common judicial measure employed to ensure compliance with court orders and prevent the flight of respondents pending resolution of financial obligations. The Supreme Court's decision reflects the gravity with which it regards both the compensation requirement and the need to prevent circumvention of its orders.

The bail arrangements allow the respondents temporary release from custody while maintaining judicial oversight through the travel restrictions and financial obligations. The court has made clear that freedom of movement will remain curtailed until the compensation amounts are fully discharged.