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Investigative Report on Communication Between Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Ali Sabry on January 8-9, 2009, Regarding Lasantha Wickrematunge

-By A Special Correspondent

(Lanka-e-News -29.July.2024, 12.15 pm)

Introduction:

This report aims to investigate the alleged communication between then Defense Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Ali Sabry (currently the Foreign Minister) on January 8 and 9, 2009, in relation to the assassination of journalist Lasantha Wickrematunge. The investigation examines whether these communications included discussions or plans related to the assassination, and why text messages between the two were reportedly deleted by mobile service providers.

Background:

On January 8, 2009, at approximately 10:45 am, Mr. Lasantha Wickrematunge was en route to his office when he was attacked by four unidentified gunmen on motorcycles along Attidiya Road, Ratmalana. The location is notably close to the Ratmalana military base. Lasantha was immediately transported to the Kalubowila Teaching Hospital, suffering from severe head injuries, and was pronounced dead at approximately 2:10 pm.

Mr. Wickrematunge, the editor of the Sunday Leader, was well-known for his investigative journalism, which frequently targeted government corruption, nepotism, and impunity. He was also an outspoken critic of the Sri Lankan government's handling of the ongoing conflict and advocated for a negotiated political resolution.

Key Concerns:

1. Alleged Communications:
- Evidence suggests potential communication between Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Ali Sabry on the dates surrounding Lasantha’s assassination.
- Concerns have been raised regarding the deletion of text messages between the two parties by mobile service providers.

2. Intimidation and Lawsuits:
- Lasantha had previously been subjected to multiple intimidation attempts and legal actions due to his critical reporting.

3. International and Local Investigations:
- Previous investigations have not uncovered the communications between Rajapaksa and Sabry, leading to questions about the thoroughness and transparency of these inquiries.

Findings:

1. Incident Timeline:
- January 8, 2009: Lasantha Wickrematunge was attacked around 10:45 am and died at 2:10 pm.
- January 8-9, 2009: Alleged communication between Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Ali Sabry.

2. Mobile Communication Analysis:
- Preliminary evidence indicates that text messages between Rajapaksa and Sabry were deleted.
- The deletion of these messages raises suspicions about the content and intent of their communication.

3. Possible Discussion of Assassination Plans:
- The timing and nature of the communications between Rajapaksa and Sabry suggest potential involvement in discussing plans to eliminate Lasantha.
- Investigators need to determine if there was a direct order or planning of the assassination by the four gunmen.

Recommendations:

1. Detailed Forensic Investigation:
- Conduct a thorough forensic analysis of mobile communications between Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Ali Sabry during the relevant period.
- Recover deleted messages to ascertain their content and implications.

2. Inquiry into Mobile Service Providers:
- Investigate the role of mobile service providers in the deletion of the messages.
- Ensure accountability and transparency regarding the deletion and any potential coercion involved.

3. Comprehensive Review of Past Investigations:
- Re-examine previous international and local investigations to identify any oversights or gaps.
- Ensure that all leads, especially those related to high-level communications, are thoroughly pursued.

4. Protection of Whistleblowers and Witnesses:
- Guarantee the safety of individuals who come forward with information related to the case.
- Encourage a culture of transparency and accountability within the investigative process.

The alleged communication between Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Ali Sabry on January 8-9, 2009, warrants a comprehensive and transparent investigation to determine its connection to the assassination of Lasantha Wickrematunge. The deletion of text messages by mobile service providers further complicates the case and raises serious concerns about potential cover-ups. It is imperative that the investigative bodies leave no stone unturned to uncover the truth and deliver justice for Lasantha and his family.