The Kandy Police Headquarters have launched an investigation into the theft of three gemstones valued at Rs. 15 million from the Ampitiya Temple, located within the Malwathu Maha Viharaya complex. Sri Lanka Latest News.
The investigation began following a complaint lodged by the Chief Incumbent of the Ampitiya Dalugolla Rajamaha Viharaya, Atipola Devarakkhita Thero, with the Kandy Police. No suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident so far.
According to police, the theft was carried out by breaking open the door and entering the temple. Despite deploying police sniffer dogs for the investigation, no trace of the perpetrator has yet been found.
Several other temples are situated adjacent to the Ampitiya Temple within the Malwathu Maha Viharaya complex, and it is reported that this has posed difficulties for police in determining how the theft was executed.
There is also an army guard post along the road leading to the Malwathu Maha Viharaya.
The investigation is being conducted by a team of officers, including Crime Branch OIC Chief Inspector Rajapaksa, under the instructions of Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) in charge of the Kandy Division, Anuruddha Bandara Hakmana.
