The Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court has ordered the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to submit a progress report on investigations into the Easter Sunday Attacks by May 20, following court proceedings held on April 22. The order was issued by Magistrate Isuru Neththikumara after considering submissions made by Additional Solicitor General Dileepa Peiris and counsel representing the suspects, including former State Intelligence Service Chief Suresh Sallay, who is currently being held under detention orders.
During the hearing, the prosecution described the investigation as a turning point and presented serious allegations, including claims that there had been attempts to mislead investigations by planting weapons at the residence of a witness to falsely implicate him. It was further alleged that individuals linked to the Sri Lanka Police Special Task Force may have been involved in these actions, and that earlier investigations had been diverted away from networks connected to Zahran Hashim. However, the prosecution acknowledged that further inquiries are ongoing and that some of these claims are yet to be supported by direct evidence.
The Magistrate stressed that only verified and substantiated facts must be presented before court, warning that unproven allegations could undermine the case and affect justice for victims. The court also raised concerns about the need to ensure the protection of witnesses, particularly in light of claims of possible intimidation or interference.
The hearing also revealed concerns regarding inconsistencies in earlier investigations, including discrepancies in reported deaths related to a blast in Sainthamaruthu and questions surrounding DNA evidence. The CID informed court that steps are being taken to obtain statements from key witnesses currently residing overseas through official channels.
Counsel for Suresh Sallay rejected the allegations, stating that his client was overseas during the relevant period and that the claims are politically motivated. The defense also requested that the investigation be transferred to another unit, a matter the court stated would be considered after reviewing written submissions.
The case was postponed to May 20, with the CID directed to report on progress. The court also permitted the continued detention of the suspect under existing orders. The developments highlight ongoing concerns about the integrity of investigations, accountability, and the need to ensure a fair and credible justice process in relation to the Easter Sunday attacks.
Source: Aithiya News