Sri Lanka Police have denied allegations that officers assaulted Ven. Balangoda Kassapa Thero during a protest at Viharamahadevi Park in Colombo on Saturday (October 17), stating that the monk slipped and fell on a concrete step during a confrontation.
In an official statement responding to a video circulating on social media alleging that police assaulted the monk while pirith chanting was underway, police said the claims were false.
According to a report submitted by Cinnamon Gardens Police, the incident occurred when officers intervened as protesters attempted to use a loudspeaker and erect a temporary shelter using tent material near the Buddha statue at Viharamahadevi Park.
Police said officers informed the protesters that these activities were not legally permitted.
The statement said Ven. Balangoda Kassapa Thero and others subsequently moved forward, pushing against police officers.
Police claimed that the monk slipped on a concrete step while attempting to move forward by pushing officers and fell to the ground.
He was subsequently transported to the National Hospital of Sri Lanka for medical treatment.
Police maintained that officers had not assaulted the monk, contrary to claims circulating on social media.
Meanwhile, Newsfirst reported that Ven. Balangoda Kassapa Thero had left the hospital after being admitted following the incident.
Police also warned that legal action would be taken against individuals spreading false or unverified information that could cause public unrest.
Cinnamon Gardens Police are conducting further investigations into the incident.
The protest was organised to demand the release of imprisoned Buddhist monk Ven. Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thero through the appropriate legal procedures.
Police have urged the public to exercise caution when sharing unverified videos and information on social media. (Newswire)