Hatharaskotuwa Police have arrested five individuals, including the son of former Minister M.K.D.S. Gunawardena, for allegedly engaging in illegal excavations to recover a gem treasure believed to have been found in a land in the Yakavanguwa area of Aluth Oya, Habarana.
The arrests were made during a raid conducted around 9.00 p.m. on the night of July 20, following a tip-off received by Hatharaskotuwa Police OIC Sub-Inspector S.W.M. Upali Herath.
Police also seized a luxury Toyota vehicle belonging to the former minister’s son, who was present at the location during the operation.
According to police investigations, the group had dug a pit approximately 10 feet deep under the guidance of a Kapuwa (a person believed to possess spiritual or occult knowledge) in an attempt to recover the alleged gem treasure. The treasure was reportedly believed to have been discovered through a dream.
Among those arrested are the Kapuwa and three others who were involved in the excavation activities. Police have also taken into custody several tools and equipment allegedly used for the illegal digging operation.
The suspects were produced before the Hingurakgoda Magistrate’s Court yesterday (21), following further investigations by the Hatharaskotuwa Police.
