Sri Lanka, Aug. 2 -- The Colombo High Court has ordered that the case filed by the Bribery Commission against former Minister Rohitha Bogollagama be heard in his absence.

The case will be called on October 30.

Colombo High Court Judge Mahesh Weeraman issued the order yesterday after considering submissions made by the Bribery Commission.

The Commission requested permission to proceed with the trial without the accused, as information has revealed that Rohitha Bogollagama is currently residing abroad.

The case was filed against the former Minister on charges of "corruption" under the Bribery Act. He is accused of inducing the Chairman of the Board of Investment (BOI) to pay over Rs. 1.5 million in hotel fees and exhibition expenses, in...