By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya

The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) yesterday recorded an 8-hour-long statement from Pastor Jerome Fernando in connection with an ongoing investigation against him.

Fernando returned to Sri Lanka on Wednesday following a court order issued last week that prohibited authorities from arresting him in connection with a controversial Sunday sermon.
Under CID scrutiny for contentious remarks against Buddhism, Islam, and Hinduism, Fernando left the country on May 15 this year.

In response to a writ petition filed by Pastor Jerome, the Court of Appeal last week issued an order directing the police not to arrest him at the airport or elsewhere.

Additionally, the court instructed the Pastor to provide a statement to the CID within 48 hours of his arrival in the country.

• In response to a writ petition filed by Pastor Jerome, the Court of Appeal last week issued an order directing the police not to arrest him