04/21 PCoI records evidence from a suspect who allegedly maintained close links with Zahran

COLOMBO (News 1st):- The recording of evidence at the Presidential Commission of Inquiry appointed to look into the 04/21 attacks, took place today (January 18). A suspect held by the Criminal Investigations Department was summoned to the commission today. Under the Protection of Victims of Crime and Witnesses Act, No. 4 of. 2015, the commission instructed to refrain from providing the identity and information of the victim. The recording of evidence did not take place at an open assembly today. The hearing was conducted with audio-visual technology, in a manner that only the judges could see the suspect. As per the facts revealed, the suspect has held a senior position in a now-banned organization. It was further revealed that the suspect had studied in Turkey and Israel. In the year 2018, the suspect had maintained links with Zahran. The suspect had joined Zahran after watching one of his videos. Zahran had approximately 150 followers at the time. The suspect had revealed that they implemented the plan for the 04/21 attacks. During today's proceedings, the commission requested media personnel to leave the premises in many instances to record confidential statements.