Seven years after the 2019 Sri Lanka Easter Sunday bombings, questions surrounding those responsible for orchestrating the attacks remain unresolved, even as new developments surface in court proceedings.
The attacks claimed 278 lives and left nearly 500 others injured. As hearings continue before the Fort Magistrate’s Court, several previously undisclosed details have come to light, including serious allegations of intimidation targeting key witnesses.
Investigations by the Criminal Investigation Department Sri Lanka have revealed multiple incidents in which witnesses who provided crucial information are now facing threats, coercion, and harassment.
According to court submissions, one witness who shared intelligence regarding the murder of two police officers in Vavunathivu—allegedly carried out by the group led by Zahran Hashim—has been threatened and offered inducements to leave the country. The witness also reported being followed and warned of false criminal charges.
Another witness, who had previously worked as a handler of intelligence informants, disclosed suspicious activities linked to former State Intelligence Service chief Suresh Salley prior to the attacks. This individual has also reported intimidation, including suspicious surveillance near his residence.
A third witness, who provided information about alleged links between intelligence personnel and the supply of weapons to extremist elements of the National Thowheed Jamaath, has reportedly received death threats and faced extortion.
In a separate incident, another witness was lured through a fake social media message and physically assaulted. The CID informed court that suspects involved in the attack have been identified, and legal proceedings are underway.
The case has also drawn attention to interactions between Rohan Gunaratna and Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan, with reports indicating meetings during Pillayan’s detention period and joint publications describing the attacks as ISIS-led.
Presiding Magistrate Isuru Nettikumara has described the situation as extremely serious, stressing the urgent need for action. He also noted that the Attorney General’s Department Sri Lanka has the authority to proceed without requiring further court orders.
The developments highlight growing concerns over witness safety and the integrity of ongoing investigations into one of Sri Lanka’s most tragic events.
