Easter Sunday attack Azath Salley arrested for alleged connection - Minister

• It was revealed that Salley has direct or indirect connection to the  vandalising of Buddha statues in Mawanella and to the attack  

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya   

Public Security Minister Sarath Weerasekera said that former Western Province Governor Azath Salley was arrested by CID over his alleged connection to the Easter Sunday attack.

Speaking to media after the Kolonnawa Regional Development meeting, he alleged that according to initial investigations it was revealed that Salley has direct or indirect connection to the vandalising of Buddha statues in Mawanella and to the attack.  

He said the CID is conducting further investigations on Azath Salley on detection orders. 

 
“Also, Salley has made a statement recently over Sharia law and that he does not respect the law in our country. Such statements would lead to religious extremism,” he said.  
He said the arrest was made by CID following the instructions of the Attorney General.  

The Minister said further questioning by CID will reveal if Azath Salley was involved with the Easter Sunday attack.