Easter Sunday attacks linked to international drug dealers : President

President Maithripala Sirisena has stated that the Easter Sunday terrorist attacks had taken place with the assistance of international drug dealers.

Addressing the conclusion of the Drug Prevention Week today (Jul 1), the President claimed that international terrorist groups have mostly been funded by revenue earned through the narcotic trade.

During his address, the President recalled his conversation with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres a few days ago on matters concerning narcotics and the death penalty.

While pointing out that the narcotic menace has increased in the country, the UN Chief had queried as to whether he was sure of implementing the death penalty, Mr. Sirisena said adding that he had replied in the affirmative.

The President who has been continuously campaigning for the death penalty, reiterated that the punishment would be implemented since he could not witness the country being destroyed before his own eyes.

Commenting on the stiff opposition raised by the ruling party, the opposition and non-governmental organisations (NGO) against the punishment, the President questioned as to what these parties have done in order to eradicate narcotics from the country.

While citing the EU's decision to slash GSP+ concessions if Sri Lanka imposes death penalty, as a "threat", Mr. Sirisena insisted that an independent country must not be threatened under any circumstances.