Sri Lanka Reopens Investigation into Easter Sunday Tragedy

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Sri Lankan government has announced a new investigation into the Easter Sunday attacks, following recent public concerns about the handling of the initial inquiry.

This was confirmed by Minister Vijitha Herath, the Cabinet Spokesperson, during a press briefing.

"We have initiated a special investigation into the Easter Sunday attacks. This investigation will also look into how parts of the report went missing or were removed. The former Director of Legal Affairs was involved in advising on these matters. We are thoroughly investigating how certain sections of the report were missing and what happened to them afterward. We assure the public that no injustice will be allowed, but this process will take some time. We have already started the investigation, and once it is complete, we will inform the public about the findings," elaborated the Minister.

Addressing concerns about Major General Suresh Sallay's retirement and his alleged involvement, Minister Herath clarified that a new police officer has been appointed to replace him.

"Even though he has retired, all official communications and documents must remain with the department. If any information or reports have been hidden or lost, he is still obligated to provide them. We have already identified several such instances," he stated.

When asked whether this new investigation is a continuation of the previous one or an entirely new probe, Minister Herath confirmed, "It is indeed a new investigation, but it will incorporate the information and reports from the previous investigations."

The investigation is being conducted under a Deputy Inspector General of Police, with experienced officers like Shani Abeysekara being involved where necessary.

"Shani Abeysekara has been appointed to another responsibility, but he will be involved in this investigation as needed," Minister Herath added.

This new investigation aims to address the gaps and concerns raised by the public and ensure a thorough and transparent inquiry into the tragic events of Easter Sunday, he noted.