Main suspect arrested over murder of Buddhist monk in Eppawala

Main suspect arrested over murder of Buddhist monk in Eppawala

March 28, 2025   02:56 pm

Police have arrested the main suspect in the brutal murder of a Buddhist monk at a monastery in Eppawala, Anuradhapura. 

The suspect was apprehended in the Katunayake area following an analysis of his phone records, the police said.

The victim, Ven. Wilachchiye Premaratne Thero (69), the chief incumbent of the Kiralogama Ruksewana Monastery, was found slain within the premises on Wednesday (26).

He had sustained multiple deep cuts inflicted by a sharp weapon.

During the investigation, police discovered the monastery’s three-wheeler abandoned on a private land near the Eppawala Hospital, while its driver was missing. 

Eppawala Police had launched a search operation and tracked the missing individual’s phone activity, leading them to Katunayake.

Upon arrest and questioning, the suspect had confessed to the murder, citing a personal dispute with the Buddhist monk as the motive, the police mentioned.

Further investigations into the incident are ongoing.

Disclaimer: All the comments will be moderated by the AD editorial. Abstain from posting comments that are obscene, defamatory or slanderous. Please avoid outside hyperlinks inside the comment and avoid typing all capitalized comments. Help us delete comments that do not follow these guidelines by flagging them(mouse over a comment and click the flag icon on the right side). Do use these forums to voice your opinions and create healthy discourse.

Most Viewed Video Stories

LIVE🔴 Ada Derana Prime Time News Bulletin 6.55 pm

LIVE🔴 Ada Derana Prime Time News Bulletin 6.55 pm

🔴LIVE - Ada Derana 12.00 Midday Prime News Bulletin - 2025.04.25

Smooth start to postal voting for LG Polls, says Elections Commission (English)

Main suspect in Dan Priyasad murder arrested (English)

Sri Lanka declares national day of mourning for Pope's funeral (English)

National security has largely deteriorated, claims SLPP General Secretary (English)

'I ended queues, secured IMF loan in 6 months after presidency' - Ranil hits back at incumbent govt (English)

Postal voting commences for 2025 Local Government Elections