Colombo's Archbishop, Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith, has called for an independent international probe into the Channel 4 video exposing the Easter Sunday attacks in 2019.
Highlighting several demands, Cardinal Ranjith emphasized the need for a thorough, unbiased, transparent, and comprehensive investigation into the revelations made by Channel 4.
This includes examining the alleged plot behind the tragedy, verifying all facts, and assessing the roles of individuals mentioned in the video, particularly their involvement in the mayhem.
In a statement to journalists, he stated, "The investigation should be carried out by an independent international team, with the assistance of local officials from the CID who were originally sought by the government but later transferred."
Cardinal Ranjith further added that officials from the police and security services who are currently under investigation and hold high positions should be immediately suspended. Additionally, individuals named by Channel 4 should step aside pending the investigations.
He specifically highlighted the need to suspend DIGs Nilantha Jayawardene and Deshabandu Tennekoon from their posts.
The Archbishop also called upon all police and security officers who possess knowledge about the attack to come forward and reveal the truth. Expressing his opinion on the matter, he stated, "Appointing a select committee once again would be a futile exercise, wasting valuable time and resources."
