Former Sri Lankan Intelligence Chief Arrested For Easter Bombings

On February 25, 2026, Sri Lanka's Criminal Investigation Department arrested former intelligence chief Major General Suresh Sallay in connection with the 2019 Easter Sunday bombings, which resulted in the deaths of 279 individuals, including 45 foreigners. This high-profile arrest marks a significant development in a long-running investigation into the coordinated suicide attacks that targeted multiple locations, including three upscale hotels and several churches. An investigating officer stated, "He was arrested for conspiracy and aiding and abetting the Easter Sunday attacks," highlighting Sallay's alleged connections with the attackers, which reportedly continued even recently. The Catholic Church, which has been vocal in its demand for justice, welcomed the arrest, with spokesman Father Cyril Gamini Fernando asserting, "What we need is the truth behind the Easter attacks. We want to see justice for all the victims."