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Wife of Former Military Intelligence Chief Begs President Not to Extend Detention Order

22 Aug 2026 By Lankanewspapers.com Local
Wife of Former Military Intelligence Chief Begs President Not to Extend Detention Order

The wife of retired Major General Suresh Sallay, the former head of Sri Lanka's military intelligence, has made an emotional public appeal to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, urging him not to extend her husband's detention order and warning that further custody could seriously endanger his life.

A Desperate Plea From the Family

In a heartfelt appeal directed at the country's highest office, Mrs. Sallay expressed deep concern over the possibility of her husband being transferred from hospital care back into the custody of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). She stressed that such a move could have grave consequences for his health and overall wellbeing.

Major General Suresh Sallay, who served as the chief of military intelligence during a significant period in Sri Lanka's recent history, has been held under a detention order while receiving medical attention. His wife's appeal reflects growing anxiety within the family over the state's handling of his case.

Health Concerns at the Centre of the Appeal

The core of Mrs. Sallay's plea rests on her husband's deteriorating medical condition. She has argued that returning him to CID custody at this stage, rather than allowing him to continue receiving proper hospital treatment, would constitute a serious risk to his life. The family is calling on the President to exercise compassion and restraint in how the detention order is handled going forward.

The case has drawn considerable public attention, given Major General Sallay's prominent role in the country's defence establishment and the sensitive nature of military intelligence operations with which he was associated.

Political and Legal Implications

The decision on whether to extend or lift the detention order ultimately rests with President Dissanayake, placing the matter squarely in the political spotlight. Critics and rights advocates are likely to watch the government's response closely, as it will be seen as a signal of how the current administration balances national security concerns with the fundamental rights and welfare of detainees.

As of now, no official response has been issued by the President's office regarding the family's appeal. The situation continues to develop, with many observers awaiting the government's next move in this closely watched case.

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See what readers are saying — and add your view.

O
Oshadi Senanayake 22 Aug 2026

If he is really sick transfer to hospital custody la, not free him.

P
Pasan Liyanage 22 Aug 2026

What exactly did he do? Goverment not giving full details.

A
Amila Rajapaksha 22 Aug 2026

Every wife will say this no. Doesnt mean he is innocent.

R
Roshan Bandara 22 Aug 2026

True but health is health, cant ignore that part.

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