Former Intelligence Chief Arrested Over Easter Attacks

Sri Lanka’s criminal investigation officers arrested the country’s former intelligence chief on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, in connection with the 2019 Easter Sunday bombings that killed 279 people, according to police officials.

Retired Major-General Suresh Sallay was taken into custody early in the morning at his residence in a suburb of the capital city, Colombo. Police said the arrest was made as part of the ongoing investigation into the coordinated suicide bomb attacks that targeted churches and luxury hotels on Easter Sunday in April 2019.

The Easter attacks were one of the deadliest incidents in Sri Lanka’s history. The bombings shocked the nation and drew international attention. Several suspects linked to extremist groups were arrested in the years following the attacks. However, questions remained about possible intelligence failures and whether authorities had prior information about the attacks.

Officials said the latest arrest is part of fresh efforts to examine all aspects of the case, including the role of security and intelligence officials at the time. Investigators are expected to question the former intelligence chief regarding his actions and decisions before and after the attacks.

The government has repeatedly promised justice for the victims and their families. The case continues to be closely followed both within Sri Lanka and internationally.