Wed Feb 25 12:26:19 UTC 2026: ### Sri Lanka Arrests Former Intelligence Chief in Connection to 2019 Easter Bombings

The Story:

Seven years after the deadly Easter Sunday bombings of April 21, 2019, that claimed the lives of approximately 270 people and injured hundreds more, Sri Lankan authorities have arrested former intelligence chief Major General Suresh Sallay. The arrest, made on February 25, 2026, under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), is described by a senior official as a “major breakthrough” in the long-standing case. The arrest comes after President Anura Kumara Dissanayake pledged to secure justice for the victims, a key promise during his campaign and subsequent assumption of office in 2024.

The bombings, carried out by a network of nine Islamist radical suicide bombers, targeted luxury hotels and churches in and around Colombo and Batticaloa. Following the election of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa in November 2019, Mr. Sallay was appointed head of the State Intelligence Service (SIS). His name surfaced in 2023 when a Channel 4 documentary linked him to the bombers, allegations he vehemently denied.

Key Points:

  • Former intelligence chief Major General Suresh Sallay was arrested on February 25, 2026, in connection to the 2019 Easter Sunday bombings.
  • The arrest was made under Sri Lanka’s Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA).
  • The bombings, which occurred on April 21, 2019, resulted in the deaths of approximately 270 people.
  • President Anura Kumara Dissanayake pledged to secure justice for the victims.
  • Human rights activist Ruki Fernando emphasized the importance of due process and a fair trial.
  • The Special Trial-at-Bar has been hearing the case five days a week.

Key Takeaways:

  • The arrest signifies a potential turning point in the investigation of the Easter Sunday bombings, possibly uncovering previously unaddressed dimensions of the case.
  • The use of the PTA in this arrest raises concerns about due process and human rights, as highlighted by activist Ruki Fernando.
  • The arrest demonstrates the ongoing pressure from victims’ families and the public for accountability in the bombings.
  • The arrest could have significant political ramifications, given Mr. Sallay’s position as head of intelligence under the previous administration.
  • The arrest highlights the Sri Lankan government’s commitment to addressing past grievances, in line with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s pre-election pledges.

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