He further claimed that both extremist factions linked to Zahran Hashim and Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara had been maintained by military intelligence, and that Sallay was behind a broader plan connected to these activities.
The court was also told that shortly after the 2019 Easter Sunday Attacks, Gotabaya Rajapaksa announced his candidacy for the presidency, raising further concerns about the timing and context of events.
These submissions were made during a hearing where the court ordered the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to present progress on investigations related to Suresh Sallay and other suspects on May 20. The order was issued by Colombo Fort Magistrate Isuru Neththikumara after reviewing the facts presented.
Suresh Sallay, currently detained under the Prevention of Terrorism Act, was produced before the court under tight security.
Addressing the court, Additional Solicitor General Peiris described the ongoing investigation as a “turning point” in the probe into the Easter Sunday attacks. He emphasized that authorities aim to ensure accountability before the next anniversary of the attacks.
He also referenced the political transition in 2015, when Maithripala Sirisena came to power, defeating the government led by Mahinda Rajapaksa.
Authorities stated their intention to arrest all those responsible for the Easter attacks within this year.
