Former Army Commander Sarath Fonseka has leveled a series of serious allegations against former State Intelligence Service Director Major General (Retired) Suresh Sallay, who currently remains in the custody of the Criminal Investigation Department under the Prevention of Terrorism Act.
Fonseka stated that Sallay did not function as an independent military officer but instead acted under the direct influence of former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. He claimed that every major decision taken by the former intelligence chief received approval from Rajapaksa and described Sallay as a loyal operative who followed instructions without question.
Fonseka Questions Sallay’s Links and Actions.
Using strong political rhetoric, Fonseka described Gotabaya Rajapaksa as the “head” and Sallay as the “backside” of the operation. He also alleged that other members of the Rajapaksa family knew about these activities.
Fonseka further claimed that Sallay maintained close connections with Zahran Hashim, the alleged mastermind behind the Easter Sunday attacks, and members of his group. According to Fonseka, Sallay oversaw payments to thousands of individuals during the post-war period, including Zahran, and carried out those transactions with the support of the Rajapaksa administration.
Former Army Commander Recalls Personal Ordeal.
Fonseka also reflected on his own experiences, alleging that Sallay and his associates advised Gotabaya Rajapaksa on ways to keep him in detention for eight months without charges or a trial. He said authorities subjected his wife and daughters to severe harassment during that period and even questioned them at the airport.
Concluding his remarks, Fonseka stated that Sallay now faces the consequences of his own actions. He argued that the hardships Sallay currently encounters mirror the treatment previously imposed on others, including his own family.
