Colombo (News 1st) – According to DIG Ajith Rohana, the Head of the Police Legal Division a total of 216 individuals, including 7 females, have been arrested in connection to the April 21st attack. 153 suspects have been either detained or remanded under the Prevention of Terrorism Act.

The DIG noted that 6 Sri Lankan nationals who were brought down from the UAE are among the arrested suspects, as they are believed to have abetted the terrorist attacks. Four Maldivian nationals too have been arrested for abetting the attacks.

Another two incidents that are being probed are the recovery of explosives in Wanathavilluwa and the vandalisation of Buddhist statues in Kegalle, Police investigations have revealed that there is a link between both these incidents. 40 individuals have been arrested in connection with the vandalisation of Buddhist statues in Mawanella. 13 of them are believed to have direct links with the April 21st attacks.

“We cannot give back the lives of around 300 people who were killed in the attacks. However, as the country’s investigative body, we will take steps to punish those involved in the attacks in line with the country’s legal framework.” – DIG Ajith Rohana

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