Suresh Sallay arrested under PTA, to be held for 72 hours for questioning - Police

Former Head of the State Intelligence Service (SIS), Major General (Retired) Suresh Sallay, was arrested this morning, October 25, under the Prevention of Terrorism (Temporary Provisions) Act (PTA), according to police reports. During a special media briefing in Colombo, Deputy Inspector General Jaliya Senaratne explained that Sallay can be held for 72 hours for questioning since his arrest falls under the PTA. Senior Deputy Inspector General of Police for the Western Province, Sajeewa Medawatte, mentioned that the arrest was made based on evidence linked to the 2019 Easter Bombings. He added that a thorough investigation is necessary, and more details will be shared later. Medawatte also noted that it is challenging to provide more information just hours after the arrest and assured that the police are fulfilling their responsibilities. When asked by reporters about claims that there is a campaign against the police for arresting Sallay without clear reasons, Medawatte responded that if they had not made the arrest, there would have been criticism for not taking action. He further stated that future interrogations of Suresh Sallay may reveal information about those behind the 2019 Easter attacks. Meanwhile, Deputy Inspector General Jaliya Senaratne reiterated that under the PTA, a person can be detained for three days after arrest. He added that after that period, authorities can seek a detention order based on the evidence gathered, and that legal procedures are in place for such actions.