Murder of Temple Chief in Seeduwa: Arrest of Main Suspect After Three Years

 

Arrest of Main Suspect in the Murder of a Temple Chief:

The main suspect involved in the conspiracy to murder the abbot of a temple in Seeduwa, Waththawa area, was arrested by immigration and emigration officials at Katunayake International Airport upon her return to Sri Lanka after a three-year absence. The suspect, a 24-year-old woman from Minuwangoda, had fled the country shortly after the murder and was attempting to leave again when she was apprehended.

Murder of the Abbot at Sri Nandaramaya Temple:

The incident unfolded on September 14, 2022, when the abbot of the Sri Nandaramaya temple in Seeduwa, named Mahānāma, was brutally murdered. Investigations revealed that the murder was orchestrated by a monk who had been residing at the temple, in collusion with a foreign woman. The motive behind the crime was linked to personal relationships and disputes among the involved parties.

Discovery of the Abbot’s Body:

The body of the murdered abbot was discovered after a foul odor began emanating from the temple. Residents of the area alerted the police, and upon their arrival, the abbot's lifeless body was found in his quarters. The cause of death was determined to be strangulation, and evidence of blunt force trauma to the head was also found. It was clear that the murder had occurred several days before the body was discovered

Suspect Arrested at the Airport:

Just one day after the discovery of the murder, on September 15, 2022, the female suspect was apprehended by immigration authorities at the airport while attempting to board a flight to Dubai. Authorities had been tracking her movements, and her arrest marked a significant breakthrough in the case. The suspect had strong ties to the monk who was involved in the murder.

Personal Relationship Between the Suspects:

Further investigation revealed that the murder was not a random act of violence but was rooted in a personal relationship between the suspect monk and the woman from Dubai. This relationship had led to conflicts, and it was believed that the plan to murder the abbot was conceived out of these tensions. The woman was found to have conspired from abroad, directing the monk to carry out the murder.

Temple Community’s Reaction:

The news of the murder shocked the local Buddhist community, especially the temple's donors and members, who held the abbot in high regard. The temple community expressed deep sorrow and outrage, condemning the act as a great dishonor to Buddhism and the sanctity of the monastic life. The abbot, Mahānāma, was known for his integrity and deep commitment to Dharma.

Investigation and Evidence Collection:

Police investigators have uncovered vital evidence linking the suspects. Their communications, financial transactions, and other activities were scrutinized, leading to the identification of their roles in the murder. The monk, who had been working at the temple, and the foreign woman were directly connected to the crime.

Arrest of Female Suspect:

The female suspect, upon her arrest, was immediately handed over to the Seeduwa police for further investigation. She was presented before the magistrate in Minuwangoda, and charges are expected to be filed against her, with legal proceedings set to begin soon. The investigation is ongoing, with law enforcement pursuing all available leads.

Investigation of Foreign Connections and Further Suspects:

Investigators are delving deeper into the potential involvement of other suspects and foreign connections. The woman’s ties to Dubai and the monk’s role in the murder have raised further questions. Authorities are continuing to collect evidence and piece together the full story behind the murder.

International Cooperation in Arrest:

The arrest of the female suspect, who had been evading authorities for three years, was made possible due to the international cooperation between Sri Lankan authorities and other global agencies. Modern technology, including updated information systems, played a crucial role in identifying her as soon as she attempted to return to Sri Lanka. This cooperation is seen as a major success in the ongoing efforts to tackle international crime.

Reactions from the Sangha and Buddhist Community:

The incident has stirred strong reactions from the Sangha and the wider Buddhist community. Senior monks have expressed their outrage over the murder, calling for stringent legal action against the suspects. They stressed the importance of ensuring justice for the victim and safeguarding the reputation of Buddhist institutions.

Ongoing Investigation and Further Developments:

Police continue to investigate the details surrounding the murder. Evidence, including phone records and financial transactions, is being analyzed to determine if more individuals were involved. The authorities are committed to uncovering all aspects of the crime, including the motives and methods that led to the tragic event.

Sri Lanka Police’s Efforts in International Cooperation:

The Sri Lanka Police have highlighted their close collaboration with international agencies such as Interpol in apprehending fugitives and criminals abroad. The use of Red Notices has been a critical tool in gathering information and ensuring that suspects who flee the country are brought to justice.

“After three years, we are able to apprehend the suspect, thanks to our international cooperation. No matter where these criminals are, we will work tirelessly to bring them to justice,” said a senior police spokesperson.
Long Arm of the Law 

This murder has not only shocked the local community but also raised concerns across Sri Lanka’s Buddhist society. It highlights the dark side of personal conflicts and the lengths to which some may go to resolve them. As investigations continue, the police are optimistic that they will uncover the full truth and ensure justice for the victim, while also sending a strong message to those who might think they can escape the long arm of the law.