Mystery surrounds Thera's death

Body found hanging from tree:

Mahinda P Liyanage, Galle Daily News Corr

The body of a young resident monk of Paragoda Ancient Raja Maha Vihara in Imaduwa, Galle, was found hanging from a mango tree near the temple's dhamma shala yesterday morning. His mobile phone was also found hanging.

Mystery surrounds the incident as to whether it was a suicide or a murder. The monk has been identified as Ven Kandaketiye Uditha thera, 24.

It is reported that the bhikku had been disappointed and worried since an incident of treasure hunting in the temple last January.

On January 29, the head of a Buddha statue was broken and a futile attempt made to find treasure and antiques from within the statue.

The Thera was popular among devotees and performed Buddhist rituals and rites for the benefit of the public.

Investigations are being carried out by Ahangama Police led by OIC A I Waidyarathne on the directions of SSP A G P Vaas Gunawardana.