Why Was Hejaaz Framed in Easter Probe?, Asks Mujibur

COLOMBO (News 1st); Samagi Jana Balawegaya MP Mujibur Rahuman has intensified the growing political debate surrounding the Easter Sunday investigations, calling for a thorough probe into the actions of former State Intelligence Chief Suresh Salley, particularly in relation to the arrest and detention of Attorney-at-Law Hejaaz Hizbullah.

In a detailed social media statement, the MP questioned why efforts were allegedly made to portray Hizbullah as the mastermind behind the 2019 Easter Sunday terror attacks, an accusation that had sparked controversy in earlier stages of the investigation.

Rahuman’s remarks add a new dimension to the ongoing national conversation about accountability, as investigators continue to revisit key decisions made in the immediate aftermath of the attacks that killed 278 people and injured more than 500.

Reflecting on past events, Rahuman recounted his personal involvement during Hizbullah’s arrest, highlighting circumstances that he described as deeply concerning.

“These days, Suresh Salley’s wife is frequently seen in the media. This reminded me of an incident during Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s administration. Around 9 p.m. in April 2020, I received a phone call from Hejaaz’s wife, informing me that CID officers had come to their house. I immediately went there and inquired from the officers what the issue was, and they said they needed to record a statement,” he said.

“At that time, Hejaaz’s wife was pregnant. After nearly two hours, he was arrested. I followed them to the CID, and he was detained under a detention order for a significant period. After he was remanded, I visited him in prison. He explained what he had gone through.”

Raising serious questions about the intent behind the arrest, Rahman called for accountability and further investigation into the matter.

“Why did Suresh Salley attempt to falsely label Hejaaz as the mastermind behind the Easter attacks? This must be investigated. It is also evident from the testimony he gave before the Commission.”

The MP emphasized that due process must prevail, stating that any individual under investigation has the opportunity to prove their innocence through legal means.

“If he is innocent, he should not be afraid. He must prove his innocence before the law, not resort to extreme actions.”