Easter Sunday Attacks Linked to Long-Term Conspiracy, Sri Lanka Parliament Told

Sri Lanka’s devastating Easter Sunday attacks in 2019 were the result of a carefully planned conspiracy that dates back to at least 2017, according to new revelations made in Parliament.

Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala told lawmakers that ongoing investigations have uncovered a series of interconnected incidents that point to a coordinated buildup leading to the attacks.

سلسلة of Pre-Attack Incidents

Authorities have identified multiple violent and suspicious incidents between 2017 and 2019 that are now believed to be linked to the same extremist network.

These include the killing of police officers in Vavunathivu in November 2018, the vandalism of Buddha statues in Mawanella in December 2018, and the discovery of explosives in Wanathavilluwa in January 2019. Investigators also cited a shooting incident in March 2019 and a motorcycle explosion in Kattankudy just days before the Easter attacks.

Officials say these events form a clear pattern of escalation that ultimately culminated in the coordinated bombings on April 21, 2019, which killed over 250 people and injured hundreds more.

Arrest of Former Intelligence Chief

In a significant development, authorities have arrested Suresh Sallay, a retired Major General and former head of the State Intelligence Service.

He has been detained under the Prevention of Terrorism Act on suspicion of involvement in the broader conspiracy. Investigators allege that he may have had prior knowledge of extremist activities and failed to take necessary action to prevent the attacks. Legal proceedings related to the case are currently ongoing.

سياسي Links Under Probe

The investigation has also turned toward potential political connections. Authorities are examining claims that Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan may have had prior knowledge of the attacks. Officials say inquiries into this aspect are still underway.

Possible Higher-Level Coordination

Further findings suggest that Zahran Hashim, identified as the leader of the suicide bomber group, may not have acted alone. Investigators believe he could have been guided or supported by a wider network operating behind the scenes.

However, authorities have not disclosed additional details, citing the sensitive nature of the ongoing investigations.

Ongoing Search for Accountability

The latest revelations have renewed calls for accountability and transparency in one of Sri Lanka’s darkest chapters. As investigations continue, officials say more information may emerge regarding the full extent of the conspiracy and those responsible.