The Galkiriyagama Police have launched a formal investigation into a break-in at the three-storey reliquary of the Pahaminiyagama Sirisadaham Viharaya in the Galkiriyagama area, where a number of rubies and a sum of money stored in a sacred casket were reported stolen.
According to police sources, the robbery occurred last night (07), when an unidentified individual or group broke a window to gain entry into the reliquary. The intruders proceeded to break open the section known as the Karadu Thero, where sacred relics were enshrined, and stole 19 small rubies that had been placed there.
The incident was reported to the Galkiriyagama Police, who have since initiated a comprehensive investigation.
The Pahaminiyagama Sirisadaham Viharaya is a renowned temple built under the guidance of the eminent Dharma preacher, Venerable Kagama Sirinanda Thero, who continues to reside at the temple as its chief incumbent (Vihasthana).
Our correspondent further reported that the culprits also broke open the alms box within the reliquary and stole a significant amount of money contained within it.
This sacred three-storey relic chamber, now the target of this audacious theft, was ceremoniously opened on May 30 under the patronage of the President of Sri Lanka. The inauguration was attended by members of the Maha Sangha and a large number of devotees.
Galkiriyagama Police have commenced extensive operations to apprehend those responsible and recover the stolen items.
