In a significant revelation, the Catholic Church has implicated Namal Kumara as the mastermind behind the background planning of the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks.
Speaking at a media briefing held at the Archbishop’s residence, Father Jude Krishantha, Director of Public Communications for the Archdiocese of Colombo, called for an immediate investigation into recent allegations made by Namal Kumara and demanded justice for the Catholic community.
Father Krishantha strongly condemned Namal Kumara’s allegations against Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith, labeling them as a deliberate attempt to tarnish the Cardinal’s image. He pointed to the removal of former CID officer Nalaka Silva, who had been investigating extremist leader Zahran Hashim, as a critical moment in the lead-up to the attacks.
“Nalaka Silva was investigating Zahran to thwart his plans. But a fabricated case against Nalaka Silva led to his imprisonment. This cleared the path for the Easter attack. It is evident to us that Namal Kumara was instrumental in orchestrating this conspiracy, likely for political purposes,” Father Krishantha said, further alleging the involvement of the Rajapaksa family in these events.
The Church has demanded that the Inspector General of Police (IGP) initiate an investigation into the accusations made by Namal Kumara and the subsequent damage caused to Cardinal Ranjith’s reputation.
This latest statement adds a new dimension to the ongoing quest for accountability and transparency regarding the tragic Easter attacks, which claimed the lives of over 260 people.