Minister Makes Serious Allegations In Parliament
Sri Lanka’s investigation into the 2019 Easter Sunday terror attacks took a dramatic turn on Wednesday after Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala publicly alleged that former intelligence chief Suresh Sallay played a key role in planning and directing the devastating bombings.
Addressing lawmakers, Wijepala claimed investigators had uncovered evidence suggesting Sallay maintained contact with extremist elements before the attacks and was involved in activities linked to the plot.
“Investigations have revealed that Retired Major General Tuan Suresh Sallay conspired with and strategically directed Islamic extremists until they carried out the attacks,” the minister said.
He further alleged that Sallay met individuals connected to the attackers weeks before the bombings to gather information about one of the targeted churches and its congregation.
Former Intelligence Chief Rejects Allegations
Sallay has strongly denied any involvement in the attacks through his legal representatives.
According to the minister, Sallay is currently in custody under anti-terror laws and was recently admitted to hospital after reportedly beginning a hunger strike while detained.
Supporters and opposition activists have staged demonstrations demanding his release, arguing that the allegations should be tested in court.
Investigation Expands To Senior Political Figures
The case has also widened beyond the former intelligence chief.
Authorities have reportedly obtained legal orders preventing former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa from leaving the country as investigators continue examining possible links and circumstances surrounding the attack.
Officials indicated that further questioning of senior figures could take place as the probe progresses.
The allegations have revived controversy surrounding claims first raised by media investigations and whistleblowers, who alleged that individuals within the security establishment may have had prior knowledge of the attacks.
One Of Sri Lanka’s Deadliest Terror Attacks
The Easter Sunday bombings on April 21, 2019, remain among the deadliest terrorist attacks in Sri Lanka’s history.
A series of coordinated suicide explosions struck churches packed with worshippers celebrating Easter as well as luxury hotels in and around Colombo.
The attacks killed 279 people, including foreign nationals, and injured hundreds more.
The bombings shocked the nation and drew international condemnation, prompting multiple investigations into intelligence failures and the events leading up to the attacks.
