Alleged Pre-Easter Attack Warning Messages Surface

Sri Lankan activist Oshala Herath has released a series of screenshots purportedly showing WhatsApp exchanges between the Director of the State Intelligence Service (SIS) and the Defence Ministry Secretary, allegedly warning of a possible terrorist attack prior to April 21, 2019.

According to the screenshots, the messages indicate that intelligence shared by a foreign counterpart had identified plans by Zahran Hashim and his associates to carry out attacks in Sri Lanka. The communication also refers to a suspected “dry run” in the Eastern Province involving a motorcycle believed to be laden with explosives.

The messages further suggest that the anticipated attack could take place “at any time on or before 21.4.2019,” with churches and hotels named as potential targets.

Meanwhile, details previously presented before a Parliamentary Select Committee reveal that Sri Lanka’s intelligence agencies had begun receiving warnings as early as April 4, 2019. Initial information was reportedly shared via WhatsApp on that date, followed by written communication on April 5.

The timeline indicates that the information was first brought to the attention of then National Intelligence Chief Sisira Mendis on April 7. It was subsequently conveyed to Defence Secretary Hemasiri Fernando on April 8, who had advised that the police be informed.

An intelligence coordination meeting held on April 9 involving senior security officials is also said to have discussed the threat, although it reportedly did not receive adequate attention at the time.

However, authorities have not yet confirmed the authenticity of the screenshots circulated by Herath.

DAILY MIRROR .

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