Former Sri Lankan Intelligence Chief Arrested Over Easter Bombings

Sri Lanka’s former state intelligence service chief, Suresh Sallay, was arrested on Wednesday in connection with the devastating 2019 Easter bombings that resulted in the deaths of 270 people. The police confirmed that Sallay, a retired Major General, will be held for 72 hours for questioning under the Prevention of Terrorism Act, as stated by Sanjeewa Madawatta, senior deputy inspector general.

Investigations Intensify Following Arrest

The bombings, which occurred on Easter Sunday, targeted several locations in Colombo, including high-end hotels and churches, leaving many casualties, including foreign nationals from India. Sallay, who served as the head of the state intelligence service under the government of Mahinda Rajapaksa prior to 2015, was detained based on ongoing investigations into the attacks. Madawatta indicated that extensive inquiries will follow his arrest and that further details will emerge subsequently.

Authorities believe Sallay’s questioning may lead to uncovering the identities of those responsible for orchestrating the bombings. The attacks were carried out by a local jihadi group and have been alleged to have occurred despite prior warnings shared with the local defense establishment. The previous government, led by President Maithripala Sirisena, faced criticism for its inaction, as intelligence reports from India had indicated potential threats.

Reopening of Investigations into the Attacks

Sallay was overseas in a diplomatic role at the time of the attacks. The current administration, known as the National People’s Power (NPP), reopened investigations into the Easter terror attacks in late 2024. Officials have suggested that political influence previously contributed to a cover-up of critical information related to the bombings.

The arrest of Sallay marks a significant development in a case that has haunted Sri Lanka for years. As the investigation unfolds, many await clarity on the events leading to the Easter bombings and the accountability of those in positions of power at the time.