CID arrests Ven. Dhammaloka Thero

The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) arrested Ven. Uduwe Dhammaloka Thero, a short while ago (09), for alleged illegal possession of an elephant calf, a source from the CID said.  

The Thera was arrested after obtaining a statement with respect to the case at the Alan Mathiniyaramaya temple in Polhengoda.

Dhammaloka Thera earlier categorically denied allegations leveled against him with regard to a two and half year-old elephant calf found illegally kept inside the temple.

Dhammaloka Thera added that he only came to know about the allegations against him through information in the internet. The Thera said that the elephant calf in question was found left behind following a ‘Pinkama’ held at the temple with the participation of 20-30 elephants.