Hacked monk succumbs to injuries

by Kurulu Kariyakarawana

The 63-year-old Buddhist monk of Sri Saranankara Viharaya in Elpitiya who had been treated in a critical condition after being hacked by another monk, succumbed to his injuries yesterday, the police said.

The monk identified as Veththewe Pangnakiththi was admitted to Karapitya Hospital in Galle after being severely hacked with a sharp object on April 15th morning by another monk of the same temple.

The victim was being treated at the Intensive Care Unit for five days before he succumbed to his injuries yesterday morning, Police Spokesman SSP Ajith Rohana said.

Elpitiya Police arrested the monk responsible for the assault and produced before Elpitiya Magistrate, who ordered him to be remanded until April 22nd.

Elpitiya Police who are conducting investigations are yet to ascertain the motive behind the assault.