Sri Lanka Detains Former Intelligence Chief Over 2019 Easter Bombings

Feb 28, 2026

44 min

Feb 28, 2026 05:30

Sri Lanka detains ex-spy chief over Easter bombings

## Arrest of Former Spy Chief

Sri Lanka has detained its former intelligence chief, Suresh Sallay, in connection with the 2019 Easter bombings. This decision follows President Anura Kumara Dissanayake's authorization under the Prevention of Terrorism Act, allowing Sallay to be held for up to 90 days for questioning.

## Background on the Bombings

The 2019 Easter attacks were a series of coordinated bombings targeting churches and hotels, resulting in 279 deaths and injuring around 500 people. Among the deceased were 45 foreigners. Nine suicide bombers were responsible for these attacks.

## Political Reactions

The arrest has sparked differing reactions. Opposition parties have criticized it as a political maneuver, while the Catholic Church in Sri Lanka has expressed support, urging for an uninterrupted investigation. The Church has previously accused former president Gotabaya Rajapaksa of hindering the investigation after he gained power following the attacks.

Read the full story at the source

What you need to know to get Emirates ID?

Leave your details and get a guide as a gift to avoid mistakes

Article contents