The Criminal Investigation Department has acknowledged that former State Intelligence Service Director Major General (Retired) Suresh Sallay was taken from his cell and strip-searched while in custody, his wife Manori Sallay told reporters on Wednesday, Ada Derana reported.
Speaking to media, Manori Sallay said the CID had now confirmed the alleged strip search after previously declining to do so. “For the first time, they admitted that he was taken out of his cell and stripped in front of others. Until now this had not been acknowledged, but now they have confirmed it,” she said. She added that both she and her husband were called for questioning over the matter.
She also said her husband’s health had significantly deteriorated and that he is now in a critical state. According to her account, Sallay is continuing to refuse food and water as part of a fast and is finding it increasingly difficult to speak or remain seated. Complications related to a cannula had caused his arms to swell, after which it was removed and fluids were being administered through a single line to stabilise him, she said.
“Suresh is not eating or drinking. He is continuing his fast. His condition is worsening day by day. He is finding it difficult to speak and cannot sit for long periods. Due to complications related to a cannula, his arms have become swollen. It has since been removed, and fluids are being administered through a single line in an effort to stabilize him,” she said.
The strip search allegation adds a new dimension to the Human Rights Commission’s ongoing probe into Sallay’s CID cell conditions, which has already cited inadequate ventilation following an inspection. Sallay’s family had earlier reported steady deterioration in his health under detention, and the CID has declined a request to grant his lawyers daily access beyond the court-ordered Wednesdays.
Sallay is held under the Prevention of Terrorism Act in connection with the reopened Easter Sunday investigation. The Attorney General has described him as a key driving force behind the attacks.
