Do Not Politicize Easter Sunday Investigations, Archdiocese Urges

The Archdiocese of Colombo has urged all parties to refrain from interfering with ongoing investigations into the 2019 Easter Sunday terror attacks, warning that any obstruction would amount to a grave injustice to the victims.

Addressing a special media briefing in Colombo today (26), Rev. Fr. Cyril Gamini Fernando, Director of Communications for the Archdiocese of Colombo, stressed that the investigations must be allowed to proceed independently and without political influence.

Referring to the coordinated bombings on April 21, 2019, which killed nearly 300 people, Fr. Gamini described the attacks as a “barbaric massacre” that claimed the lives of worshippers attending Easter services, as well as civilians from different religious and ethnic backgrounds.

The attacks targeted several locations, including St. Anthony’s Shrine, St. Sebastian’s Church, and multiple hotels in Colombo.

Fr. Gamini emphasized that uncovering the full truth behind the attacks is essential to upholding the rule of law, warning that failure to do so would send a dangerous message that perpetrators of serious crimes can evade justice.

He also cautioned against politicizing the investigations, noting that the probe is being conducted by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). Allowing investigators to carry out their duties without interference is critical, he said.

Any attempt to derail the investigation would, he added, be akin to committing another injustice against those who were killed or injured in the attacks.

Calling on the public and all stakeholders to remain patient, Fr. Cyril Gamini Fernando expressed confidence that meaningful outcomes would emerge if the investigation is allowed to continue independently. He further stressed the need to determine whether there was any political involvement, who was responsible, and what motives lay behind the attacks, insisting that the entire truth must be revealed.