Suresh Sallay Detained in Harsh Conditions: Udaya Gammanpila

13-Mar-2026

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Leader of the Pivithuru Hela Urumaya, Udaya Gammanpila, has expressed concern over the conditions under which former intelligence chief Major General Suresh Sallay is being detained.

Gammanpila stated that Sallay, who played a key role in defeating terrorism and safeguarding national security, is currently being held at the Terrorism Investigation Division in conditions involving cockroaches and rats.

He made these remarks to the media after visiting Sallay in detention on March 11.

According to Gammanpila, Sallay has been denied even the minimum facilities normally provided to ordinary prisoners. He is reportedly being held in a punishment cell located in front of a toilet.

Due to the severe stench in the room, Sallay’s condition has worsened as he already suffers from chronic migraine headaches, forcing him to double the dosage of his medication.

Gammanpila further stated that the room lacks proper lighting and ventilation, and Sallay is forced to sleep on newspapers spread on the floor. 

During the night, rats and cockroaches reportedly crawl over him, causing severe mental distress.

He added that a previous detainee held in the same cell had contracted rat fever.

Sallay has also reportedly been barred from speaking with others and has not been provided with books or newspapers to read.

Gammanpila claimed that these actions were based solely on an unsubstantiated statement allegedly given by Azad Maulana to Channel 4.

He said it was painful to see a military officer who risked his life for the country being treated in such a manner without evidence.

Gammanpila added that Sallay had told him in tears that even if he had been captured by the LTTE he would not have been treated in this way.

He further noted that Sallay had expressed distress over the injustice faced by him, particularly since his father and brothers had all served in the military and his entire family had dedicated themselves to the country.

A request has been made to the police to provide Sallay with psychological counselling and proper medical treatment as he is currently experiencing severe mental stress.

Gammanpila stated that all necessary legal action would be pursued through the courts against what he described as a politically motivated act of revenge.