The Minister made this observation today (26) at a special press conference held at the Parliament complex to explain on the position with regard to release of suspects under PTA.
He said that even during the previous government suspects who were detained under Prevention of Terrorism Act were released. Out of the total 204 suspects, there are 56 convicted and sentenced, 124 indicted suspects and 24 suspects under investigation.
Justice Minister said that the court has released on bail 39 persons - 31 on Nov.11 and 08 on Nov.16. Also 20 suspects arrested under Prevention of Terrorism Act who have pleaded guilty for lesser charges has been identified for rehabilitation.
He further said that on January 22 in 2010, two groups were released. Thereafter 12,000 who were arrested during the latter part of the war were rehabilitated and released to the society.