Suresh Salley Identified as Third Suspect in Easter Attacks Probe

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Criminal Investigation Department informed the Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court that retired Major General Tuan Suresh Salley, currently detained and questioned under the Prevention of Terrorism Act, has been named the third suspect in the Easter Sunday attacks investigation.

The CID told the court that the suspect was arrested on 25 February 2026, and that he is now being held and questioned under a 90-day detention order.

The case was taken up today following the filing of a motion to update the court on the progress of the investigation.

During the proceedings, Colombo Fort Magistrate Isuru Neththikumara inquired whether there was sufficient evidence to list him as a suspect. The CID informed the court that, based on the investigations conducted so far, evidence has emerged to name him as a suspect.

Investigators further requested that, since the suspect is currently held under a detention order, it is necessary for the Magistrate to carry out an inspection.

Two others have already been named suspects in connection with the incident, including a former Police OIC in the Eastern Province.

The CID said the investigation relates to sensitive information concerning the murder of two police officers in Vavunativu prior to the Easter Sunday attacks, as well as the Saindamaruthu bomb explosion, which occurred shortly after the attacks.