Those Who Have Done No Wrong Need Not Fear Easter Sunday Investigations: Deputy Minister Sunil Watagala

13-Mar-2026

.

Deputy Minister Sunil Watagala has stated that investigations into the Easter Sunday attacks are being conducted without any political bias and that those who have done no wrong need not fear the process.

He pointed out that the arrest of the former head of the intelligence division has created tension in political circles, but despite attempts by certain parties to disrupt the investigations, the government is continuing to enforce the law properly.

He made these remarks while addressing a special discussion held at the Monaragala District Secretariat on March 12.

He further stated that the arrest of the former intelligence chief has caused anxiety among many politicians, although the reasons for their concern are unclear.

“Our focus is solely on conducting investigations into the Easter Sunday attacks. Instead of cooperating with the investigations, certain individuals are attempting to create confusion outside,” he said.

“If a person has done nothing wrong, there is no reason to panic. The government and the Ministry of Justice have decided to complete these investigations as quickly as possible. That is why the Easter Sunday cases are being taken up for hearing daily.”

He also criticised what he described as “bankrupt opposition parties” for creating unnecessary noise.

The Deputy Minister said the government is implementing the Constitution properly and impartially, particularly Article 12(1), which guarantees equality before the law.

He noted that large quantities of narcotics have recently been seized in areas close to Sri Lanka’s maritime borders and assured that legal action regarding these incidents would proceed without obstruction.

He also stated that legal amendments are being considered so that individuals arrested in connection with drug trafficking would not be granted bail until investigations are completed.

Addressing criticisms that seized narcotics are not properly destroyed and may re-enter society, he said the matter has been discussed under the leadership of the President and is currently being reviewed by a committee approved by the Cabinet and comprising members of the Ministry of Justice.

Accordingly, the committee is examining a proposal to retain only small samples for legal purposes while immediately destroying the remainder of the seized drugs.

He also noted that there had previously been legal complications regarding whether cases could be filed concerning drugs seized in deep-sea operations. Amendments have now been made to the relevant laws to ensure that such cases can be prosecuted and investigations carried out properly.